August 26, 2014 – Olympia, Wash. – Today, two-thirds of American fourth graders cannot read at grade level. And, disadvantaged children come to school at least two years behind their peers in pre-reading skills. It is hard to catch up – especially after second or third grade.
Volunteers who work with students have the power to help boost academic achievement for a child and set the right track for a brighter future. United Way of Thurston County seeks passionate, dedicated and kind volunteers in Thurston, Lewis and Mason Counties to join the Reading Buddy program for the 2014-15 school year.
According to Impact Forms conducted by United Way, reading level improvement results indicated a high percentage of reading advances made by students as adult buddies sparked a new excitement for reading.
“Although the success rate is evident, there is still a great need for more Reading Buddies in elementary schools throughout Thurston, Lewis and Mason Counties,” said Jeannie Roe Gruber, Retired and Senior Volunteer Director.
Consider serving as a United Way Reading Buddy to children ages five to 10 years old, in a one-on-one or group setting by dedicating one hour a week from October 2014 to May 2015.
“One hour a week is all it takes to make a difference in a child’s life,” said Roe Gruber. “Being a Reading Buddy will enrich a volunteer’s life too.”
Reading Buddy Orientation dates are available in September and must be completed prior to serving.
Thurston County – Olympian Community Room (111 Bethel St. NE, Olympia)
Wednesday, Sept. 10th, 1-2:30 PM
Lewis County – United Way Office (450 NW Pacific Ave, Chehalis)
Tuesday, Sept. 9th, 9-11:30 AM
Thursday, Sept. 25th, 9-11:30 AM
Mason County – United Way Office (221 W. Railroad Ave. Ste. 12, Shelton)
Thursday, Sept. 18th, 10-11:30 AM
Tuesday, Sept. 23rd, 10-11:30 AM
For more information about the Reading Buddy program or to sign up for an orientation, contact Jennifer Thompson, RSVP Coordinator at (360) 943-2773 ext. 21 or email jthompson@unitedway-thurston.org.
Visit www.unitedway-thurston.org for more information.
