Inspiring a Love of Reading
READ UNITED brings volunteers into local classrooms to share the joy of reading with elementary students. By pairing community members with young learners, the program helps children build literacy skills, discover the power of books, and gain the confidence they need to succeed in school and beyond. With the support of dedicated volunteers and strong partnerships with schools, READ UNITED is opening doors of youth opportunity and writing a brighter future for every child.
In 2024, READ UNITED volunteers made a powerful impact across our community. With the help of 201 dedicated volunteers, students experienced more than 804 hours of reading time in 213 classrooms. Together, we reached children in six school systems across three counties, spreading the joy of reading and building stronger foundations for lifelong learning.
In the short video testimonial below, READ UNITED volunteer Mariana Reyes shares why she chose to get involved and how simple it is to give just 30 minutes a week. Her story highlights the lasting impact volunteering has on both students and readers, and reminds us that sharing your time, experiences, and love of books can truly change a child’s future.
Want to make a difference in just 30 minutes a week? Join us as a READ UNITED volunteer! You’ll step into a K–2nd grade classroom in Elkhart, LaGrange, Noble, or Steuben County to read a book, share your experiences, and inspire young learners to discover the joy of reading. Your time not only builds literacy but also strengthens Youth Opportunity, helping children gain the skills and confidence they need to succeed in school and beyond. It’s a simple, rewarding way to give back—and the impact lasts a lifetime. Click the link below to get started.
FALL SEASON
Elkhart Community Schools (2nd grade only)
- Kick-off: Thursday, Oct. 16th , 8am Elkhart Office
- Season start: week of Oct. 28th
LaGrange (Lakeland Primary & Westview) (K-2nd), K & 1st)
- Kick-Off: Friday, Oct. 17th (location/time tbd)
- Season start: week of Oct. 28th
West Noble Primary (2nd & 3rd)
- Kick-Off: Oct. 27th (location/time tbd)
- Season starts: Nov. 3rd
Help us open the doors of youth opportunity for children in our community by becoming a Read United sponsor. Your support makes it possible to bring volunteers into classrooms, provide books and resources, and inspire a lifelong love of reading for students in our communities. As a sponsor, you’ll not only invest in literacy and youth success, but you’ll also be recognized as a community leader committed to building brighter futures—one page at a time.