United Way Reading Buddies Program

United Way's Reading Buddy Program Brings Community to Schools

One hour a week can help change a child’s future.

United Way of Lewis County’s Reading Buddies program connects caring community volunteers with K–3 students who are not yet reading at grade level.

Volunteers spend just one hour each week in a K–3 classroom, providing students with additional reading practice, encouragement, and one-on-one or small-group support.

Volunteers can choose the participating school district where they would like to serve and will work directly with their classroom teacher to determine how their weekly hour can make the greatest impact.

Depending on the needs of the classroom, volunteers may:

Read individually with students
Listen as students read aloud
Practice literacy skills
Provide one-on-one or small-group support
Help build the confidence that can turn a struggling reader into an enthusiastic one

Why Third Grade Matters

There’s a common saying in education:

“In grades K–3, children learn to read. After third grade, they read to learn.”

Third grade is a critical benchmark in a student’s education. As students move into later grades, reading becomes the foundation for learning across nearly every subject. Students who enter those grades without strong reading skills can face increasing challenges as coursework becomes more complex.

Reading Buddies was created to help address that challenge early. By giving young readers additional time, attention, and encouragement, volunteers can help students strengthen the skills they need to succeed in the classroom and beyond.

Become a Reading Buddy

You don’t have to be a teacher or literacy expert to make a difference. You simply need to be willing to show up consistently, encourage a young reader, and give one hour a week.

Reading Buddies volunteers:

Serve approximately one hour per week
Work with students in kindergarten through third grade
Choose the participating school district where they would like to volunteer
Work with the classroom teacher to determine how their time can best support students
Complete a required background check before volunteering