Most students who start behind, stay behind.

With a vision to see 100% of area 3rd graders reading proficiently, and as a signature community impact initiative of the United Way of Greater Kingsport since 2012, United WE READ has been a key community player fighting for early grade literacy among our youngest community members: Kindergarten, 1st, 2nd, and 3rd graders. Our unique positioning combines forces between two school systems, a robust network of afterschool programs, and key community stakeholders. Through United WE READ our children are growing toward future success.

Our mission is to engage, empower, and equip all children, families, and the Greater Kingsport community with tools and strategies that build a literacy rich culture, and a pathway to lifelong success.

Leading to Read. Reading to Lead.

Over 2,000 Kindergarten through  3rd graders are reached each year, and multiple teams of volunteers–over 200 strong–contribute to and execute programming for United WE READ….But we need your skills, your voice, and your partnership to fight for Early Grade Literacy.

United WE READ knows…
Reading is the basic tool for success in school, work, and life.

Children LEARN TO READ until 3rd grade then they READ TO LEARN.

By reading 20 minutes a day, children develop a larger vocabulary, a longer attention span, and better listening skills. Children that read 20 minutes a day are exposed to about 1.8 million words every year. That is 137 new words per minute!