Every child deserves the chance to reach their full potential, but far too many students are struggling with one of the most foundational skills for success: reading.

In New York City public schools, only around 50% of elementary school students are reading on grade level, and that number drops to 40% or less for Black and Brown students. According to one recent study, reading achievement gaps compared to before the pandemic are worse now in most grades than they were in 2021.

At Read Ahead, we know it doesn't have to be this way.

Every student can become a fluent, confident, and joyful reader with the right support. Read Ahead intervenes early, providing weekly sessions designed to help 1st - 5th graders develop literacy skills, a love of reading, confidence, and more. Through reading together, conversations, and fun literacy games and activities, Read Ahead mentors provide essential 1:1 support to help their mentees thrive.

We need your help to reach 630+ students in the 2025-26 school year. Help us reach our goal by making a donation, spreading the word, or registering as a fundraiser to join our campaign. Every dollar makes a difference!

Read Ahead is also pleased to accept donations via check, ACH transfer, credit card, or donation of appreciated stock.

Check
Please make checks payable to Read Ahead and return to:
Read Ahead
Attn: Development Dept.
50 Broad Street, Suite 502
New York, NY 10004

ACH / Wire Transfer
To make your contribution by bank ACH or wire transfer, please direct all funds to:
Chase
120 Broadway
New York, NY 10271

Account #: 978932393
Routing #: 021000021
Account Name: Read Ahead, Inc.

Stock Donations
We are able to accept donations of appreciated stock via transfer to our account. Please email development@readahead.org for more information.

Donor-Advised Funds
We accept donations from donor-advised funds. To get started, please visit here or email development@readahead.org.

Want to multiply the impact of your gift? Ask your employer if they will provide a corporate match for your donation. You can notify the Read Ahead team of any matching funds by filling out this form.

Please contact Lucille Song, Senior Manager, Development Operations at development@readahead.org with any questions.