MIAMI COUNTY, IN- Thanks to a $2,060 grant from the Miami County Community Foundation (MCCF), Reach Out and Read Indiana is helping children throughout Miami County develop strong literacy skills before they ever step into a classroom. The grant provided developmentally appropriate books for children from birth through age five during routine pediatric well child visits, giving families both the resources and encouragement to make reading part of everyday life.
By integrating literacy promotion into healthcare, Reach Out and Read touches families where they already are. During each visit, healthcare providers not only give children a new book to take home but also offer parents guidance on appropriate age reading practices and early language development. This approach strengthens parent-child relationships while helping families build home libraries.
The program primarily serves young children and families who may have limited access to books and early learning resources.
“The Reach Out and Read program helps children build strong language and literacy skills by encouraging families to read together, fostering healthy development and a lifelong love of learning,” said Jennifer Price, RN, Practice Manager. “It is a program that we all love being a part of!”
The benefits extend well beyond individual families. Research shows that children who are exposed to books and share reading experiences early in life enter school better prepared to learn, setting the foundation for future academic success and stronger communities. By encouraging families to read together and supporting parents as their child’s first teacher,
Reach Out and Read is helping improve kindergarten readiness while investing in Miami County’s future workforce and overall quality of life.
This grant was made possible by MCCF Community Funds, which are currently being matched by $2 for every $1 donated. To learn more or donate, visit www.nicf.org or contact MCCF Director of Development, Cheryl Broyles, at 765.470.1778.
