One mentor. One child. One book at a time.

Why reading aloud to children is important– According to the Annie E. Casey Foundation, reading proficiently by the end of third grade can be a make-or-break benchmark in a child’s educational development. Research shows that the single most important activity required for building eventual success in reading is reading aloud to children.  However, a disproportionate number of children in low-income homes are not read aloud to or even have books in their homes.

Power Lunch goals–The four main goals are to improve students’ interest in and attitudes toward reading, advance their reading related skills (e.g., comprehension, vocabulary, listening, etc.), increase opportunity for academic success of participants, and build their self-esteem and confidence.

Student selection–Teachers recommend students for participation based on low reading test scores and English spoken as a second language.

Convenient and Meaningful Volunteer Opportunity–Power Lunch affords companies and individuals a chance to make a positive impact on students and schools in the community during just a lunch hour a week.

One mentor + one child + one book at a time = better reading test scores –Results from formal studies by the U. S. Department of Education and Loyola University show significant gains for program students, particularly in reading attitudes, self-esteem, academic performance and library use.  The benefits of Power Lunch participation were especially strong for students reading below grade level. Watch us on YouTube