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Join United Way for an exciting day of encouraging students in the Greater Houston Area to grab a book and read for fun! Volunteering for Read Across America is an incredible opportunity to make an impact on the lives of the children in your community through encouraging literacy.

As a volunteer, you have an opportunity to:

  1. Read to a class of 1st, 2nd, or 3rd grade students at one of the participating schools.
  2. Encourage the students to read for fun.
  3. Share how you use reading in your everyday life.
  4. Make an impact!
Read in a classroom at a local elementary school. United Way staff will provide all materials and training onsite.

All volunteering will be in-person this year.

March 5, 2024 from 9:00 am - 11:00 am
Buffalo Creek Elementary, 2801 Blalock Rd, Houston, TX 77080
Shadowbriar Elementary, 2650 Shadowbriar Dr, Houston, TX 77077

March 5, 2024 from 8:30 am - 10:30 am
Meyer Elementary School, 16330 Forest Way, Houston, TX 77090

Let’s get reading!

  • Frequently Asked Questions

    What will volunteers do with the students during their volunteer session?

    Volunteers will join a classroom in pairs of two for 45-60 minutes.  During that time, you will introduce yourself, share how reading Is important in your life and in your career, read a picture book, ask the students some comprehension questions, and complete 1-2 literacy activities. The classroom teacher will be in the classroom the entire time to assist with any issues that might arise and encourage students to engage in the conversation.

    What books will I read?

    United Way of Greater Houston will provide a variety of books that are appropriate for the grade level you visit, including some popular series and titles like Pete the Cat or Fly Guy!

     

    What training and support with United Way provide ahead of time?  On the project day?

    United Way staff will provide a short, but comprehensive training at the beginning of the event.  In addition to the classroom teachers remaining in the rooms during the reading times, United Way staff will also circulate to answer any questions that arise.

    Do volunteers need to complete any waivers or background checks?

    All volunteers will complete a district background check before the project. You’ll receive instructions for how to complete all your required forms via email within 1-2 days after registering. 

  • Sign up

Many thanks to our 2023-2024 United Way Caring Champion Sponsors for making this evening possible.

Enbridge • ExxonMobil • NOV

Bank of America • CenterPoint Energy
Memorial Hermann • TechnipFMC • Zachry Group

Entergy Texas • EY• Houston Chronicle • Stella Artois • TC Energy • Triple-S Steel/Intsel Steel