Literacy Together made a meaningful impact in the lives of young readers across Western North Carolina. Through partnerships with Christine Avery Learning Center, Youth Transformed for Life, and the YMCA, 28 young adults served as Literacy Leaders, working alongside developing readers and multilingual learners in grades K-6 to strengthen reading, writing, and communication skills.

One of those Literacy Leaders is Yesenia, who has been involved with Literacy Together for more than a year. Reflecting on the importance of literacy, she shared, “The power of literacy means having the ability to communicate. To learn from others and teach others. It’s the key to interacting with the world, regardless of time, space, age, or race. It’s expression.”

This summer, Yesenia worked with two third-grade students and witnessed encouraging growth. “A huge win is that they aren’t too shy or scared to try reading out loud now!” she said.

Funding from WNC Bridge Foundation will help strengthen the program by expanding literacy support services, developing multisensory curriculum resources for struggling readers, and enhancing leadership development opportunities for young adult interns.

Together, these efforts are helping more than 150 K-12 students access the literacy and language support they need to thrive.

WNC Bridge Foundation is proud to support Literacy Together’s commitment to empowering young learners, developing future leaders, and transforming lives through the power of literacy. We are grateful to Literacy Together and all of the other partners and individuals who unite to help more than 150 K-12 students access the literacy and language support they need to thrive.