By RYAN SKAITH
The United Way of Greater St. Joseph is seeking volunteers and book donations this winter for its Reading Adventure program, an initiative designed to bolster literacy skills for local elementary students.
The program will partner with seven area schools during the second semester: Carden Park, Coleman, Hosea, Lindbergh, Parkway, Pershing, and Pickett. Reading sessions are scheduled for January and February, and organizers are looking for volunteers to assist students on-site.
Volunteers can sign up for a single session, a few dates, or a recurring schedule. Because the program also provides books for students to take home, United Way is accepting donations of new and gently used books appropriate for elementary-aged children.
Since its launch in 2011, United Way Reading Adventure has helped more than 700 volunteers connect with students. The program aims to prevent the “summer slide” in literacy and improve reading proficiency throughout the academic year.
Individuals or organizations interested in volunteering or donating books can call 816-364-2381 or register online at stjosephunitedway.org.