Every Child Deserves to Grow Up Reading

April 23 is World Book Day — and in Winnebago County, we're celebrating the work happening every day to make reading a reality for every child.

The stakes are clear: children who aren't reading by third grade are four times more likely to drop out of school. That's why United Way Rock River Valley has set a bold goal — 75% of Winnebago County third graders reading at grade level by 2034.

We're not waiting for that to happen on its own.

How We're Building Readers

Tiny Turners

Home visitors meet families where they are — 1 to 3 times a month — with early literacy guidance and books to stock a home library. More than 1,100 families are reached every month.

Page Turners

Six books per year go to every public early childhood classroom in the county, paired with teacher curriculum and take-home activities for parents. 3,200 children served.

Reach Out and Read

Books handed out at well-child checkups — birth through age 5 — at pediatric providers across Winnebago County. 10,000+ visits annually.

Dolly Parton's Imagination Library

Books mailed directly to children from birth to age 5. UWRRV is the local administrator that makes this possible here. 5,507 children currently enrolled — and 4,683 have already graduated.

The Bigger Picture

Books at home. Books at the doctor. Books in the mailbox. Books in the classroom.

Wherever families in Winnebago County are, we're working to make sure a book is there too. Because reading isn't just a skill — it's a door. And every child deserves to walk through it.