Every child in our region should have the best available opportunity to succeed in school and in life. United Way is working to make this a reality with the Reading Village.

By ensuring children have access to literacy opportunities daily, as well as supporting the entire family as other issues arise, we can provide the best possible environment for a child to learn and grow. Without it, many children will not enter school ready to learn and only two percent will ever graduate from college.

Participants are needed to join the pilot phase of the Reading Village.

Participant Families
During the pilot phase the Reading Village will include families from Wayne, Oakland and Macomb counties. We are particularly interested in single mothers from a low-income household, with a child born at a low birth weight (less than 5.5 lbs.). We have determined that these are the most vulnerable of the children at risk of failing in school.

However, we are also looking for normal birth weight children from low-income homes. Our pilot group will include children in three age groups – 0-1 years old, 1-3 years old and 3-5 years old. Families will work with an Everyday Reader and Reading Navigator to provide and maintain an adequate learning environment for the child.

Reading Navigators
Receive a small stipend, and will work with families to develop a literacy plan for the children, and make sure children are delivered free books and educational materials. Navigators also make sure each family is connected to providers in the support network so that educational and basic needs are met and a stable learning environment is preserved.

Support Network
Consists of health care professionals, educational experts, nutritionists, service agencies, local community centers, and others who assist participants with health and human service needs that participant families may encounter. These volunteers will help families as needs arise, and will work with Reading Navigators and United Way 2-1-1 to coordinate supportive services.

Get Involved Today
If you’re interested in being a participant family, contact Rodd Monts.