By Emma Barhydt
On September 26, 2024, the Greenwich United Way hosted a Reading Champions Open House at Town Hall from 12:30 to 2:30 pm, offering the community an insightful look into the largest volunteer-driven early literacy program in the area. Attendees had the opportunity to hear from notable speakers, including Dr. Danielle Gomez and Alexis Pochna from The Windward Institute, who presented evidence-based research on early child literacy, helping participants better understand and navigate the stages of reading development. This informative and engaging presentation was open to the public and offered at no cost.
In addition to the presentation, Greenwich Public Schools’ K-8 English Language Arts Coordinator, Kim Paladino, spoke about the enduring success of the Reading Champions program throughout the district’s elementary schools. “Greenwich Public Schools is incredibly excited to have Reading Champions volunteers continue to work in all our elementary schools,” said Paladino. “For more than a decade, they have been unwaveringly committed to supporting GPS students in attaining important reading fluency skills while building a positive connection.”
The Reading Champions program, now in its 16th year, has expanded its reach to all 11 public elementary schools in Greenwich, as well as five after-school sites, creating a growing need for volunteers. These dedicated volunteers play an essential role in helping elementary students improve their reading skills, offering one-on-one tutoring sessions to enhance reading fluency. To support both new and veteran volunteers, the program provides comprehensive training and materials, alongside on-site teams and GPS literacy specialists who ensure volunteers are well-prepared to assist students.
This past spring marked a significant milestone for Reading Champions, with 120 volunteers supporting 350 students across Greenwich Public Schools and three after-school programs. With two additional sites opening this fall—the YWCA after-school program and the Family First program at New Lebanon School—the program now reaches an even wider range of students, including those from families learning English as a second language. These evening sessions are designed to provide crucial literacy support outside the typical school day.
David Rabin, CEO of Greenwich United Way, emphasized the program’s far-reaching impact. “The success and effectiveness of Reading Champions is a testament to our incredible team of literacy volunteers,” Rabin said.
The open house event served as both a celebration of the program’s successes and a call to action for new volunteers, who will be crucial as the program continues to grow and expand. Reading Champions began as a pilot program in 2008 at North Mianus School with just eight reading tutors and 24 students. Since then, it has flourished, positively impacting the academic confidence and literacy skills of more than 5,000 students. The program’s expansion this summer into year-round support aims to compound students’ progress and help them meet grade standards before the new academic year begins.
For those interested in getting involved or learning more, please contact Reading Champions program manager Cecile Meunier at cmeunier@greenwichunitedway.org or call 203-869-2221.
