Henry Winkler, accomplished author, film and television star, has signed on as Honorary Chairman of Smart Kids with LD.
Mr. Winkler, who struggled with undiagnosed dyslexia growing up, was honored with the organization’s 2009 Community Service Award in April, for his commitment to supporting children with learning disabilities. His children’s book series, Hank Zipzer: The World’s Greatest Underachiever, features a hero that kids with learning disabilities everywhere can relate to, as Hank triumphs over the everyday challenges of school faced by a child with dyslexia.
After his iconic role as The Fonz on the long-running sitcom Happy Days in the 1970s, Mr. Winkler went on to an award-winning career as an actor and director. When asked if he ever expected to write a book, Mr. Winkler replied, “Never. There was a time when it was hard for me to read a book, so it is monumental to be able to write one.” The 17th and final volume in the Hank Zipzer series will be published next spring.
Speaking about taking on the role of Honorary Chairman of SKLD, Mr. Winkler states, “There are so many children in our country today with learning challenges who really feel ‘less than,’ who are so afraid that they’re never going to accomplish their dream. Smart Kids is there to say, You can. You will. Eventually you can be who it is you dream of being.”