Volunteers needed to support students in iRead program

CHAMPAIGN, IL (Chambana Today) – The iRead program is making a significant impact on students’ reading skills, and volunteers are needed to help continue this success in the spring of 2025.

The fall 2024 iRead program had 160 community members who helped local students improve their reading competencies. The program will continue into the spring of 2025, running from March 4 to May 9. Application Deadline for Spring 2025: January 24, 2025.

According to iRead, iCount Coordinator, Cheryl Barringer, volunteers help the students set up a foundation in crucial skills: “Today, more than ever, students need a strong educational foundation in order to succeed in our rapidly changing world. iRead ● iCount® pairs up community volunteers with kindergarten and first grade students in the Champaign and Urbana School Districts in order to help them develop foundational reading and math skills. The sooner students develop and master these skills, the more academic success they will have. Academic success results in more educational opportunities and career options being available to students. This not only improves the life trajectory of the students in our community schools but also strengthens our community as well.”

Volunteers fluent in Spanish and French are particularly encouraged to apply, as there are opportunities to support students in dual-language programs.

Barringer says a significant number of children in our area struggle with literacy and math skills. Without intervention, these students are more likely to continue to fall behind. Extra help in reading and math gives students the tools they need to catch up and thrive.

Here is the link to apply in Champaign: champaigncounty.org/assets/pdf/Spring-2025-Unit-4-IRIC-Volunteer-Application/

Apply here to work with Urbana youth: champaigncounty.org/assets/pdf/Spring-2025-Unit-4-IRIC-Volunteer-Application/

By volunteering and supporting local programs like iRead, we can make a real difference in the lives of students who need it most. Together, we can help build a better future for our children.