young woman reads a book with a child in a library
Youth Opportunity

Literacy Development

United Way expands access to literacy resources that can spark imagination and fuel learning for every child.

Every child deserves the chance to read, learn, and succeed. At United Way, we know that strong literacy skills can unlock opportunities. That’s why we partner with schools, families, and local organizations from early childhood through high school to help students build the reading skills they need at every stage of development. When kids read at or above grade level, they’re more likely to graduate, pursue higher education, and thrive in adulthood. 

By The Numbers

Literacy is not only about access to books, but also creating opportunities for our youth to succeed. WIth your support, United Way can reach more students and provide the tools they need to thrive.

617M+

Children and adolescents worldwide are not reading at grade level

1.9M

Youth served through out-of-school programs or individual support through United Way

1.1M

Families with children supported through United Way

Boy reading at his desk with help
Youth Opportunity

Summer That Builds Stronger Readers

Only 26% of Delaware fourth graders read on grade level. United Way of Delaware is working to change that. By embedding literacy tutoring into local summer camps, nearly 1,900 students received targeted reading support this year. Guided by trained teen interns, students practiced key skills in fun and familiar spaces. The result? Better reading scores and a new love of books. 

Youth Opportunity

Closing the Literacy Gaps in Turks and Caicos

Children in Turks and Caicos begin school at five or later, many of them with little exposure to reading. With 89% of all students reading below grade level, United Way is focused on closing literacy gaps to create opportunities for children to thrive.