WHAT IS READ AND ACHIEVE?

Helping strengthen literacy outcomes by providing families with opportunities to grow as learners from newborn until becoming independent readers.

Why is reading on grade level by 3rd grade so important?

Experts tell us a child’s ability to read at grade level by third grade is the single greatest predictor of future success because this is when they transition from learning to read to reading to learn. When a child falls behind in reading, they risk falling further behind in every subject. By helping children to reach this goal, we are helping to put them on the path to lifelong success.

Our Vision: Every Child Thrives

When children thrive, families and communities thrive with them. We envision a community where every child feels safe, supported, and free to be themselves. Children are engaged in learning, encouraged to explore their curiosity, and surrounded by strong, meaningful relationships.

Parents, educators, and community members work together to form a network of care that meets each child’s unique needs. In this environment, children are heard, valued, and supported—while families experience renewed hope for the future.

The Challenge: Gaps in Support

Many families are navigating complex challenges without the tools or support they need. Caregivers may struggle to manage stress or build healthy coping skills, which can impact children’s emotional well-being.

Children today also face additional barriers, including:

• Difficulty managing emotions and forming relationships

• Increased screen time and reduced interpersonal interaction

• Limited family engagement

• Unstable home environments

• Disconnected systems of support

These challenges can make it harder for children to feel secure, connected, and ready to learn.

---

Our Approach: Strengthening Families & Connections

Closing these gaps starts with strengthening relationships and listening to families. We focus on:

• Expanding education and engagement opportunities for caregivers

• Building strong social networks among families

• Creating mentorship opportunities for children

• Encouraging meaningful partnerships between schools and families

• Hosting engaging events that foster learning and connection

• Improving communication between educators and parents

• Equipping professionals to navigate difficult conversations with care

By centering relationships and community voice, we create a stronger, more supportive environment for children.

---

What Success Looks Like

We measure success not only by academic outcomes, but by the overall well-being of children and families. Indicators of progress include:

• Improved school attendance and academic performance

• Children feeling happy, safe, and curious

• Increased family engagement and connection

• More community resources and volunteers supporting schools

• Stronger collaboration between schools and community partners

• Positive feedback from children and families

• Greater investment in children’s services and advocacy efforts

---

Building a Thriving Future Together

Creating a community where every child thrives takes all of us. By working together—families, schools, and community partners—we can ensure every child has the support, relationships, and opportunities they need to succeed.

Life-Changing Strategies at work:

• Dolly Parton Imagination Library, providing books each month to nearly 2,000 children ages birth to five.

• Book Nooks and Literacy Kits giving families books, supplies and how-to’s to having quality interactive learning and fun

• Talking is Teaching encourages parents and caregivers to TALK, READ, and SING to help encourage brain development and vocabulary growth.