Read With Me Volunteer Programs (RWMVP), established in 2004 by Roberta and Clay Klein, addresses the critical need for English-speaking role models in the Coachella Valley.
Recognizing the challenges faced by families in the East Valley living near the poverty line, many of whom work in agriculture with limited education, RWMVP focuses on English language acquisition for elementary school children.
This inter-generational and intercultural program encourages people to volunteer two to three hours weekly, engaging with students in Transitional kindergarten (TK) through to Grade 6. Volunteers read with the children, offering assistance with pronunciation and comprehension through thoughtful questioning. With 22 schools represented across the Coachella Valley, Tahoe, and Reno, Nevada, RWMVP’s mission has evolved to empower disadvantaged children, residing in non-English-speaking homes, to enhance their reading and speaking abilities.
Research underscores the impact of early education, emphasizing that children not reading at grade level by third grade face long-term challenges. RWMVP has played a pivotal role in raising graduation rates, with 86.1% of their students now completing high school, a significant increase from 2004. In the 2022-23 academic year, over 14,500 students benefited from the dedication of 600 volunteers,
contributing 14,000 tutoring hours and donating books valued at $98,562.
Executive Director Sean Webb encourages both new and returning volunteers in the Coachella Valley, part-time or full-time, to join this rewarding endeavor of helping disadvantaged children become successful contributors to their local communities.
To continue this impactful mission, RWMVP invites individuals to volunteer their time and talents. Interested readers can find more information on their website, www.readwithmevolunteers.com.
