Across the country, community volunteers are stepping up to read to students in efforts to stall the summer slide. Caring adults reading with kids – of all ages, from the early years through high school – are boosting academic achievement together.

United Way needs one million volunteer readers, tutors, and mentors to extend the momentum across the nation. Anyone with passion and commitment can help a young person achieve greater academic success. Volunteers can make the difference!

Again this year on the United Way Day of Action we will have volunteers reading to kids at 9 sites during the free summer lunch program in partnership with USD 305, the Salina Public Library, Books-A-Million, and many local volunteers. Save the date for Friday, June 20 to be involved!

New this year we are also in need of volunteers to read weekly during the free summer lunch program! Separate from the United Way Day of Action, this 8-week event will take place at Sunset and Schilling Elementary Schools. Volunteers will read with kids and then help pass out books for the kids to take home. You will be able to sign up to read once, twice, or all eight weeks!

Please contact Ruth at Salina Area United Way, (785) 827-1312, with any questions or go to the Salina Area United Way web site at unitedwaysalina.org .