Because Reading Changes Everything.
Dream.
Every dream begins with a story. From the moment a child is born, the possibilities are endless. Parents dream of bright futures. Children arrive curious, ready to learn. But without strong reading skills, too many kids fall behind before they even have a chance to succeed.
At United Way of Rock River Valley, we believe reading is the key—to discovery, to opportunity, to breaking cycles of poverty, unemployment, and crime. That’s why we created United for Literacy, a community-wide initiative ensuring every young child has the tools to read, learn, and succeed.
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A CHILD'S BRAIN IS NEARLY FULLY DEVELOPED BY AGE 3.
Read.
Early reading shapes more than school skills—it builds confidence, curiosity, and lifelong success. Children who develop literacy skills early are more likely to graduate and pursue meaningful careers.
But when literacy is delayed, the impact lasts a lifetime. Adults who struggle to read face higher unemployment, lower wages, and fewer opportunities—creating cycles that affect families and entire communities.
By investing in literacy, we break those cycles. We raise graduation rates, prepare young people for the workforce, and strengthen economic stability—helping every child, every family, and every neighborhood thrive.
How we are putting this vision to action:
Programs for Children
- Reach Out and Read in all health systems
- Read-alouds and independent reading
- Literacy support in daycares and schools
- Community Storytimes
- Comprehensive new book distribution
- Tiny Turners (ages -3)
- Page Turners (early childhood)
- Dolly Parton's Imagination Library
Programs for Caregivers
- Family Literacy Nights
- Engagement materials and instruction
- Training and outreach
Programs for Community
- Training and Professional Development
- Advocacy
- Public awareness messaging
- Additional book distribution via book donation drives
Read more about our impact on the community:
Thrive.
It begins with a single spark—one child discovering the power of reading. But the impact doesn’t stop there. That child grows into a confident adult, shaping their future, lifting their family, and strengthening our community.
This is generational change.
When we invest in literacy, we don’t just change lives today. We ignite dreams that inspire tomorrow—and every tomorrow after that.
YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE.
With your support, we can expand programs, reach more families, and help kids soar.
Together, we lift up the next generation—building stronger families, thriving children, and a stronger community.
Join us. Because Reading Changes Everything. Make a dream come true.
