The 2020-21 school year is uniquely challenging for children, families, and school communities. New York City public school children are faced with limited live instruction and social isolation during remote learning, putting them at-risk of falling behind academically and socially. Researchers estimate that children could lose up to 14 months of learning during COVID-19. For elementary school children from low-income communities--like those that Read Ahead serves--the impact of this school year could last a lifetime.

The need for Read Ahead has never been more urgent. Since 1991, Read Ahead has connected public elementary school students with caring mentors from leading corporate and community partners. During weekly Read Ahead sessions, mentors support children to grow their confidence, love of reading, motivation, and other skills essential for success. 

For the 2020-21 school year, Read Ahead has developed a completely virtual program to meet the pressing need of providing weekly one-on-one support to children who need it most. With new technology platforms and an educator-designed curriculum, Read Ahead will match children with supportive mentors for fun, live program sessions that build connection, confidence, literacy skills, and more. 

But we need your help! Your donation to our Opportunity Fund campaign will ensure that Read Ahead’s new virtual program can reach over 750 children with a full school year of programming designed to make a lasting difference. Every dollar contributed allows us to invest in the curriculum, technology, and resources we need to launch this completely new virtual program. 

Thank you for your support!