Very Involved Parent (VIP) Academy

Program Overview

The VIP Academy trains parents to serve as peer advocates and reading ambassadors by delivering community reading events to their neighbors. As one of the most dynamic aspects of our parent engagement strategy, this extends LINC's reach and amplifies the message "Children need family support to become strong readers." Children participating in VIP-led literacy events see an adult role model from their own neighborhood demonstrating positive literacy behaviors.

The Academy consists of four workshop sessions, of two hours each, followed by ongoing activities and collaboration with LINC staff around literacy project activity plans, networking connections, on-going planning and guidance, and opportunities to partner with LINC in their child's school and in the community. VIPs celebrate their commitment to their community and receive special recognition at a Graduation Ceremony. After graduation, LINC supports the VIPs as they plan and host their own community literacy projects.

Student and Volunteer Success Stories

"My three children have been greatly impacted by my "Rain of Wisdom" VIP (Very Involved Parent) program. "Every week they ask me what we will be reading during the program. It's wonderful to not only see my children, but all of the children who attend my program engaged and asking questions throughout. I love bringing 10 families together on a weekly basis to read, learn and spend time together." Jenny Hernandez, Inwood, Manhattan

"Being a VIP is a wonderful opportunity for me to ensure he gets the best education possible and to help make a change in other children's lives. I now know I will get the resources and support I need to appropriately educate my son." Evelyn Ruiz, Hunts Point, Bronx