Founded in 2001 by Christine Alexander, New Haven Reads began as a community book bank that expanded to include tutoring. Its mission is “to share the joy and power of reading.” Today, New Haven Reads’ approach is to bring high-quality, research-based programs to their students and their families. Their growing programs include a Pre-K and Kindergarten program for youngest students and an SAT prep class to support older students’ dreams of college.
The community book bank remains a key element of New Haven Reads and annually distributes over 100,000 children’s and adult books. In addition, last year over 550 students received one-on-one tutoring each week at three locations. New Haven Reads’ focus is not only on the student but also on his or her family- it provides parent/child workshops as well. Students come from all over Greater New Haven with a majority (79%) from low-income households. Thanks to its dedicated staff and a corps of volunteers, New Haven Reads’ one-on-one literacy program is a viable, free solution to give students the tools they need to be successful in school and in life.
FLY’s partnership with New Haven Reads will further the non-profit organization’s mission. FLY members serving with New Haven Reads will also have the opportunity to join the newly established New Haven Reads’ Young Professional Advisory Board.
Christen Ruff, a board member at New Haven Reads, is especially enthusiastic about this partnership. She notes that “young professionals, specifically, have the ability to bring a wealth of knowledge and energy to any organization… this partnership will tap into the talents, ideas, and networks of young, dynamic future leaders.”
Source: www.newhavenreads.org
To learn more or get involved please contact the FLY coordinator for New Haven Reads, Christine Nguyen.
Interested in volunteering at New Haven Reads during the summer? Find out how to get involved here!