Reading Partners

Reading Partners is a national nonprofit organization dedicated to closing the literacy gap for students in under-resourced communities. Since our founding in 1999, we have worked side-by-side with schools and communities to provide one-on-one literacy tutoring for elementary students who are reading below grade level. In Newark, we partner with local public, charter, and community schools to create reading centers where trained volunteers deliver individualized, evidence-based lessons that help students master essential reading skills, build confidence, and develop a lifelong love of reading. Our mission is simple: to empower students to reach their full potential by unlocking the power of reading — because reading is the foundation for all future learning.

Reading Partners is a national nonprofit that helps children — especially those in under-resourced communities — build strong literacy skills so they can thrive academically and in life. Here’s what they do: One-on-One Tutoring: Trained community volunteers work with K–4 students individually, usually twice a week, using a structured, research-based curriculum. Targeted Support: They focus on students who are reading below grade level, helping them catch up and often exceed expected growth. Partnership with Schools: Reading Partners collaborates with public and charter schools, setting up “reading centers” inside schools where tutoring sessions happen during the school day. Evidence-Based Results: The program uses data-driven strategies and ongoing assessments to track student progress. Volunteer Engagement: They recruit and train volunteers of all backgrounds — from college students to retirees — to serve as reading tutors. In short, Reading Partners connects dedicated volunteers with students who need extra reading help, providing the tools, curriculum, and support to make measurable progress.