A college man reading a little girl in elementary school. They are both African American.
Universities Embrace Reading Buddy Initiatives

Colleges and Universities, both religious and secular that have SERVICE as a component of their curriculum/mission, find partnering with local early child literacy initiatives a “hand-in-glove” opportunity.

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A white female college student teaching a white little girl how to read.
A small auditorium filled with people who are watching a film. There is a strong blue light on the back wall. You can see the backs of everyone sitting.
Closes up shot of three people looking down on a desk
Three college students standing. The boy in the front has on a beanie.
A college man reading a little girl in elementary school. They are both African American.
Two college students working at a table. The photo is taking from outside and you can see them through a window.
Little girl reading a Dr. Suess Book. You can only see the back of her and mostly the book. There is an adult hand pointing to the words.

Why are Universities Ideal Reading Buddy Partners?

School children think college students are ROCK STARS
Proximity: Most every university has grade schools within walking/biking distance
Funding: Most reading buddy programs are already paid for
University students are already fully CAPABLE to read with a child
Children who read grow up to go to college
Education is the mission of ALL universities
Good Will: Your community will notice your tangible influence
Real Impact: There is profound illiteracy crisis in the US and young adults can make a significant difference in the lives of children
Many schools require or encourage service hours and being a reading buddy is a perfect opportunity for students from ANY BACKGROUND

A Simple Path to Partnership

1. IDENTIFY

Find a local literacy partner or under-resourced school through your community partners.  Contact Children’s Literacy Project or perform a quick google search to “Find a literacy mentor program near me.”

2. MOTIVATE

Host a Literacy Service Sign-up Day.  Children’s Literacy Project will provide media like the award-winning documentary SENTENCED and could even send inspirational speakers for special events or chapel services.  Invite the local literacy program or school staff to express the local need.

3. SIGN-UP

The University-aged have been change agents throughout human history.  They have passion and idealism and they have not yet forgotten what it felt like to be a little kid.  Remind students that their new “reading buddy” is depending upon them to show up every week.

4. CELEBRATE

Collect the stories of student experiences and child transformation.  Provide testimonials through university communications and at events.  Let your community partners know about your impact.

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