Cindy P.

Please help me help struggling kids learn to read, this summer and beyond. Many of you only learned of the reading crisis that exists in our country, because of the recent videos that have gone viral. Unfortunately, this problem is far from new. Take it from someone who has worked for various school districts, for the sum of 12 years. I have always known that phonics was the most effective way to teach reading, but my efforts were not supported. You cannot do ANYTHING in this life without knowing how to read, which is why Illiteracy and poverty go hand-in-hand. I have volunteered helping kids achieve reading proficiency, at no cost, for more than 30 years. One of the young man I’m working with currently, made it all the way to 3rd grade, only being able to recognize 8 out of the 26 letters of the alphabet. Some of which he recognized uppercase, but not the lowercase version of the same letter. People who don’t work in education, would be shocked over just how bad it really is! Unfortunately, things are even worse for the kids who were in K-3rd, during pandemic, virtual learning. Many of them are still struggling today and they are my priority. t’s so sad to see how badly it affects their confidence and mental health. With my only kiddo off to college this year, I actually now have the time to fully dedicate myself to the cause. For 30 years I have volunteered on the side, while working full time. If I was a millionaire, I would still spend my days helping kids learn to read, as it gives me so much fulfillment. Since I’m not millionaire, and bills don’t pay themselves, I need your help. This summer, my goal is to help at least 25 kids, so that they can return to school, not only having gained much needed phonics skills, but also with the confidence they lost along the way. I believe I can realistically help as many as 100 kiddos a year. Sincerest Thanks!