ReadyKids! is calling on caring community members to step forward and change a child’s future through its ReadingPals program, which provides one-on-one literacy mentoring to local preschoolers. With only 36% of students in Escambia County entering kindergarten prepared in 2024, too many children are starting school already behind—and the need for dedicated volunteers has never been greater.
Details: At the heart of ReadingPals is a simple but powerful belief: every child deserves someone who shows up for them. Volunteers commit just 45 minutes a week to mentor a pre-K student, helping them develop critical literacy and social-emotional skills, while also giving them something every child needs—encouragement, confidence, and a sense of belonging. Volunteers receive training, support, and all the materials needed to make a lasting impact.
“Every child deserves someone who shows up for them consistently,” said Kari Lindemann, ReadyKids!’ Program Manager. “ReadingPals is about more than teaching a child to read – it’s about building their confidence, making them feel valued, and showing them that people believe in them. When a volunteer takes the time to be that steady, caring presence, it can change the entire trajectory of a child’s life.”
Since its formal launch in 2011, ReadingPals has served over 2,000 children in Escambia County, providing thousands of one-on-one mentoring sessions, high-quality books to enjoy at home, and other essentials families need throughout the year. Through ReadingPals, children are building the skills and confidence they need to begin kindergarten ready to learn.
But there are still many little ones waiting for someone to step in for them. ReadyKids! invites community members to be that person.
To learn more about ReadingPals or to get involved as a volunteer, contact Program Manager, Kari Lindemann, at Kari@ReadyKidsFL.org or visit www.ReadyKidsFL.org.