United Way calls for volunteers and books for reading programs

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (News-Press NOW) -- United Way is asking for volunteers to read with children this summer through the United Way Reading Adventure and for books to be given to children through different United Way programs.
United Way will partner with different programs during the summer months to help students improve reading skills.
The partnering programs include: InterServ school-age child care program at Wesley Center, InterServ school-age child care program at Sojourn Church, Noyes Home for Children and the Bartlett Center Youth Program.
Each program is held at a different time and volunteers are needed in July and August to read with students.
Volunteers will read with small groups of students for approximately 40 minutes. Volunteers can sign up to read once, a few times or on a regular schedule.
Children in the United Way Reading Adventure program will also receive books throughout the summer to encourage reading at home.
United Way also distributes books through several different programs to help build home libraries. New and gently used books for children ages six through 12 are needed as well.
Individuals and organizations interested in volunteering to read or donating books can contact Jodi Flurry at (816) 364-2381 or jodi.flurry@stjosephunitedway.org, or register online at www.stjosephunitedway.org.