The path to literacy begins with
having the right supplies.
Early learning resources are critical to ensuring children in the Greater Richmond & Petersburg region are ready for kindergarten and reading at grade-level by third grade. United Way is committed to helping young children in our region meet these crucial Steps to Success.
How It Works
Throughout the year, we collect and assemble thousands of Literacy Kits to be delivered to students in our region. Each kit includes school supplies, an age appropriate book and information for families so students can be prepared for kindergarten and reading at grade-level by third grade. These are the three major steps for creating and delivering Literacy Kits to the public:
HOLD LITERACY KIT DRIVES
Volunteers collect books and school supplies for their own drives, which are then assembled into Literacy Kits.
ASSEMBLE LITERACY KITS
United Way coordinates and facilitates groups of volunteers on-site and off-site to assemble more than 2,000 Literacy Kits.
DISTRIBUTE TO SCHOOLS
Early elementary students at schools throughout the region receive kits at various times throughout the year.
2022-2023 Timeline
August 2022 – Literacy Kit Kick-off
United Way begins another year of raising and distributing kits for young learners throughout our region. Volunteers join United Way to learn more about raising supplies for Literacy Kits.
September 2022 – Fall Donation Deadline
September 30, 2022 – Fall Donation Deadline – Completed Literacy Kits must be dropped off at United Way.
March 2023 – Spring Donation Deadline
March 24, 2023 – Spring Donation Deadline – Completed Literacy Kits must be dropped off at United Way.
June 2023 – Kindergarten Countdown Camp Donation Deadline
June 16, 2023 – Kindergarten Countdown Camp Donation Deadline – Completed Literacy Kits must be dropped off at United Way.
Ways to Get Involved
Bring together friends, neighbors or colleagues to raise supplies and books and assemble them into Literacy Kits. Our toolkit makes it easy to plan your drive, garner support, communicate the need and increase the impact of your efforts. Find ideas and tools to help get you started.
Learn More
Any group donating 100 completed kits or $1,500 will be recognized as a Literacy Kit Leader. Learn more about being recognized as a Literacy Kit Leader.
Learn More
Contributing United Way Literacy Kits is fun, easy and can be done from home. Use our supply list to collect and assemble the necessary items.
View List
United Way Literacy Kits are a year-round effort. We are always recruiting volunteers to help with upcoming phases. Keep an eye on this page for announcements or email volunteer@yourunitedway.org to learn more.
Resources
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Upcoming Volunteer Opportunities
Need a little more support?
Contact us for more support on hosting your Literacy Kit drive.