Volunteers needed for United Way of Central Indiana’s ReadUP program

INDIANAPOLIS – United Way of Central Indiana is looking for volunteers for its signature ReadUP program, a literacy initiative that sends volunteers into elementary schools across the region to read with third graders to help them get on track with grade-level literacy.  

Registration is open for those interested in volunteering for the school year, and the program will begin in September.  

During the 2024-2025 school year, 262 volunteers worked with 316 students at 23 schools in seven Central Indiana counties.  

This year, United Way is looking to recruit over 400 volunteers in Boone, Hamilton, Hancock, Hendricks, Marion, Morgan and Putnam counties.  

Now in its 19th year, ReadUP focuses on the third grade, when students shift from learning to read to reading to learn.  

The need for the program is perhaps more critical than ever: Third graders who did not pass Indiana’s reading test, IREAD, will be held back under a new state law.  

“Programs that can support students who may be at risk of not passing are even more in demand,” said Julie Kilger, United Way’s impact senior director. 

New this year, the ReadUP program has been adapted to reflect the science of reading, a research-based approach to literacy instruction. Within the ReadUP program, this approach was piloted at three Marion County sites last year and will roll out at all ReadUP sites this year. State lawmakers in 2023 passed a law requiring that school districts follow a science-of-reading curriculum.  

Last year, 95% of students who participated in ReadUP demonstrated an increase in their literacy skills.  

Volunteers spend one hour a week reading with two students throughout the school year. Some volunteers choose to join the program with a partner, splitting the time commitment.  

Volunteers must complete a background check and a one-hour virtual training session.   

To learn more or sign up, visit uwci.org/readup.