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Read to Succeed organizers thank volunteers

A literacy program in Tippecanoe County continues to grow.

Greater Lafayette Commerce and the United Way of Greater Lafayette organized the Read to Succeed effort two years ago. It brings community volunteers into the classroom to help students in kindergarten through third grades in eleven schools.

United Way C.E.O. James Taylor says the program is just one part of improving reading skills.

“What we do know is our work with the teachers and with the students is helping to create an atmosphere within the schools and within the classrooms that’s helping to facilitate the entire educational process.”

Organizers held a reception Thursday to recognize the more than 400 volunteers who helped Read to Succeed this school year. Taylor thinks they will need up to 650 volunteers next year as the program expands to 15 schools.

He says they don’t know how many current volunteers are going to be able to continue.

“We know for a fact we’re going to have to recruit an additional number of volunteers and also do some backfill for people who have really done a great job, but are unable to continue.”

Taylor says those interested may sign-up online. The process involves a background check, then scheduling an hour-a-week commitment with a school, followed by training before going into the classroom.

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