Grade Level Reading Initiative

Program Overview

To ensure more children enter school ready to learn and succeed academically, United Way launched the Grade-Level Reading Initiative (GRLI) in 2013. The initiative aims to provide enriching activities and reading materials to academically challenged children who might need academic reinforcement and motivation. The initiative currently focuses on two strategies to increase reading proficiency -- year-round book distributions and Vello, an innovative online tutoring program. The initiative is also aimed at promoting literacy in the community, building children's at-home libraries, and is devoted to student success.

BOOK DISTRIBUTIONS
A large component of our GRLI is our year-round book distributions. From 2017 to 2018, United Way donated more than 3,600 high quality and age-appropriate books to local children. By the end of 2018, United Way had donated 7,350 books throughout 27 community events like literacy fairs, STEAM camps, summer feeding programs and more. By sharing books with children, they are more likely to retain literacy skills, especially during the summer months or during school breaks. It also increases their access to enriching learning materials. When children read at home, it not only enhances their ability to become independent readers but also builds confidence and promotes lifelong learning. The United Way is committed to the children of our community, and sharing books is one way we love to give back.