Growing Early Literacy Across Winnebago County with Alignment Rockford

Access to early literacy doesn't have to be complicated.

• A parent reading a bedtime story.
• A child turning pages while waiting for an appointment.
• A caregiver learning that talking, reading, and playing really matter.

These small, ordinary moments are where early literacy begins — and where long-term opportunity is built.

Our Partnership with Alignment Rockford

At United Way Rock River Valley, we invest in early literacy because children who are supported early are more likely to succeed in school — and in life.

One of the ways we do this is by partnering with Alignment Rockford and their Ready to Learn initiative.

What Is Ready to Learn?

Ready to Learn supports children from birth to age five. These early years are critical for brain development and learning.

Instead of focusing on just one program or place, Ready to Learn brings literacy into everyday spaces where families already are.

How This Partnership Supports Families

Through United Way funding and community collaboration:

• Families receive free books starting at birth, including board books in newborn kits
• Children find books and learning activities in Ready to Learn Spaces, such as:
  • Libraries
  • Community centers
  • Laundromats
  • Barbershops

Caregivers learn simple, research-based ways to:

• Read together
• Build language
• Strengthen relationships

These supports help turn ordinary moments into learning opportunities.   

Using Data to Guide Our Work

United Way believes in using data to understand what families need.

Alignment Rockford helps lead the use of the Early Development Instrument (EDI) in Winnebago County. The EDI looks at how groups of children are developing in areas like:

• Physical Health
• Emotional Maturity
• Social Competence
• Language & Cognitive Skills
• Communication Skills and General Knowledge

The EDI does not evaluate individual children or schools. Instead, it helps communities see where children are thriving and where more support is needed.

Turning Information Into Action

Last fall, Alignment Rockford brought together educators, nonprofit leaders, parents, and community members for a data summit. Together, they reviewed EDI results and other local data.

This shared understanding helps guide funding, programs, and policies that better support families.

Why This Matters

Each year, Ready to Learn reaches thousands of children and families through books, play, and conversation.

These early experiences help children arrive at school ready to learn — and help our entire community grow stronger.

At United Way Rock River Valley, we’re proud to support partnerships like Alignment Rockford that create real, lasting impact across Winnebago County.