Read to Succeed shines light on the importance of early grade reading as United Way kicks off 2017 Campaign.

Education is the cornerstone of individual and community success, and early grade learning is vital to education. United Way of Midland County understands the importance of enriching education in our community and invests in early learning programs that set students up for a lifetime of success. In order for everyone in our community to reach their full potential, focusing on early learning and reading at grade level is an important place to start. In fact, students reading at grade level are four times more likely to graduate high school.

“Studies show that third grade is the last year that kids are taught to read,” shared Ann Fillmore, Executive Director at United Way of Midland County. “From fourth grade on, kids need to be able to read in order to learn.”

To kick-off the annual United Way Campaign, United Way and all four Midland County Public School Districts are coming together on Monday, September 11 to build awareness of early grade reading and begin to connect our community with ways they can help.

“United Way is the collaborator that brings businesses and communities together to create positive impact,” stated Diane Postler-Slattery, CEO of MidMichigan Health and 2017 United Way of Midland County Campaign Chair.