Join the Movement and Become a Reading Buddy!

United Way is recruiting Reading Buddies for our local schools in Thurston, Lewis and Mason Counties.

Most people agree that a quality education is a building block for a quality life.  Did you know that when children enter kindergarten without basic skills they begin school already behind?  Studies show that if a child is not reading at their grade level in 3rd grade, they continue to struggle, which impacts graduation rates.  When kids don’t graduate, most lack the skills to succeed as self-supporting adults.
As part of United Way’s nationwide movement to recruit 1 million reading buddies, mentors and tutors, a group of local RSVP volunteers have joined this effort.
Fifty Reading Buddies were placed last year.  Based on the enthusiasm shared by our school partners the program was a huge success!
 
But, we have a lot more students who need help!
 
If you agree that a building block to a quality life is Education, then sign up today!  If you really want to impact change in our community become a Reading Buddy and help students become strong readers! 
 
It’s simple.  One hour a week is all it takes to make a difference in a child’s life.  Being a Reading Buddy will enrich your life tooHelp us build this program.  Recruit a friend or invite us to speak to groups you are affiliated with that may be interested.  Reading Buddy Orientation Dates Available Soon!
 
Call Jennifer Thompson, United Way RSVP Volunteer Coordinator, 360-943-2773, ext. 21 or email jthompson@unitedway-thurston.org
 
Together, we can make a difference!