By Denise Noe, Chief Development Officer for the Boys & Girls Club of Rockford
At the Boys & Girls Club of Rockford, we view literacy as a cornerstone of lifelong success. We shifted our programming priorities in 2017 to focus on math and literacy, and we have witnessed the transformative impact of these skills on the children and families we serve. Our mission to improve the quality of life for youth—regardless of sex, race, or economic background—aligns with our partnership with United Way of Rock River Valley to tackle the literacy deficit in our community.
Reading Spaces
We create spaces where reading becomes more than a skill—it transforms into a shared experience. At our five Club locations, we run programs like family reading nights and read-aloud sessions for youth under age 8. These programs foster a love of books while building confidence and connection. These moments offer critical opportunities for growth, not only for the kids but also for their families.
Family Reading Night
During a recent family reading night, one mother shared her plan to help her young daughter become the best reader she could be, inspired by lessons she learned from volunteer leaders. She admitted that she hadn’t been much of a reader herself but felt motivated by the enthusiasm of our staff during the event. Now, she and her daughter spend one-on-one time reading together every night.
Moments like this demonstrate how literacy extends beyond academics—it builds relationships, fosters creativity, and instills a sense of possibility. These shared reading experiences connect families and inspire growth, creating positive changes that ripple far beyond the Club.
We create inclusive environments where every child feels welcome, thanks to programs supported by United Way. We select diverse books, involve volunteers to support emergent readers, and host storytimes that reflect the diversity of our community. We always aim to meet kids and families where they are.
Read-Aloud Sessions
A young Club member recently gained confidence through a simple yet powerful moment during a read-aloud session. With the support of a caring volunteer, they tackled a storybook for the first time on their own. The pride expressed after finishing the book was unmistakable and shared with friends, sparking interest and excitement in others. These moments remind us why this work matters and how critical partnerships with United Way make it possible.
Together, We’re Not Just Helping Kids Read—We’re Changing Their Futures.
Literacy provides our youth with the tools they need to succeed in school, envision brighter futures, and become leaders in the community. United Way’s commitment and collaboration amplify our efforts, enabling us to reach more families and close literacy gaps in impactful ways.
At the Boys & Girls Club of Rockford, we see literacy transforming lives every day. With support from United Way of Rock River Valley, we create this transformation across our community—one story, one child, and one family at a time.