Y Readers is a nationally recognized literacy program that serves students in grades K-3 who are reading below grade level. The program operates as an afterschool program as well as a six-week summer camp. The purpose of Y Readers is to engage students who are reading below grade level in active learning and enrichment that improves literacy skills and self-confidence in the classroom. The YMCA of Greater Charlotte partnered with Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools in the summer of 1999 to launch a six-week literacy and enrichment camp. Y Readers, originally named Project Starfish, served just 40 students at Reid Park Elementary. Y Readers now serves nearly 500 students across three school districts through both summer and afterschool programming. Y Readers also became a National Signature Program for Y-USA in the summer of 2012 and will combat summer learning loss in 41 cities across the country in 2013. The Y is committed to helping all children discover and live their true potential. By combining an innovative curriculum with enthusiastic teachers and volunteers, the Y has inspired thousands of children and is critical to the community's collective effort to improve the graduation rate and success of children. What does the program include? >> Student Growth >> What is the cost? >> Partnership with School Districts >> Find our schools >> Learn more >>
Y Readers is offered to families at no cost. We are able to provide this free opportunity thanks to the collective efforts of the YMCA and community members who contribute to the annual YMCA Community Support Campaign. The program also receives funding from The Leon Levine Foundation, City of Charlotte, Mecklenburg County, and Charlotte-Mecklenburg Community Foundation. The program costs $1,300 per student in comparison to the $8,500 it costs the school system for a child to repeat one year of school. To make a financial contribution, contact Blair Campbell at 704 716 6365 or blair.campbell@ymcacharlotte.org.
The YMCA of Greater Charlotte works with Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, Lincoln County Schools, and Mooresville Graded School District to identify schools and students with the highest need for the Y Readers program. School leaders assist in selecting certified teachers and teacher assistants from their own faculty to lead the program, identify students to participate in Y Readers, and provide facilities for the summer and afterschool programs. Together, the Y and partnering schools track students' progress and measure the program's impact. Find Our Schools Here >> “We have evidence the Y is committed to improving results in the classroom. Our partnership with the YMCA is about helping every child, every day, for a better tomorrow.” – Dr. Heath Morrison, Superintendent, Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools “The Y Readers program has truly been an asset to summer enrichment in the Mooresville schools. Because of the Y Readers program, children receive that extra bit of attention that will keep them from falling behind over the summer break.” – Dr. Mark Edwards, Superintendent, Mooresville Graded School District “We are thrilled to be partnering with the Y to offer the Y Readers program for students in Lincoln County Schools. Students receive extra support through uninterrupted literacy instruction and can have a better start to the school year.” – Dr. Sherry Hoyle, Superintendent, Lincoln County Schools
To get involved or learn more, contact Yolanda R. Bynum, Sr. Program Director, School Age Initiatives, at 704 716 6364 or yolanda.bynum@ymcacharlotte.org. For more information, download our Y Readers White Pages.