Read Across Columbia
Heart of Missouri United Way recognizes the barriers that stand between children and strong educational outcomes. We actively invest in programs that give students and families the tools, stability, and opportunities they need to learn and thrive.
Our Read Across Columbia program removes barriers to early literacy by putting inclusive, high-quality books directly into the hands and homes of first and second-grade students across Columbia Public Schools. Each year, we reach approximately 650 students, delivering four free books per student plus a book coupon provided by Daniel Boone Regional Library — a combined total of 3,250 books and coupons distributed annually.
We know that reading proficiency is shaped not only by classroom learning, but also by the challenges many families face—from food insecurity to access to safe, stable housing. Schools selected by Columbia Public Schools for Read Across Columbia typically serve the district’s most diverse student populations and those with the highest free and reduced lunch rates.
Despite these challenges, our community is seeing real progress. Third-grade reading proficiency has increased from a baseline of 37.6% in the 2021–2022 school year to 43.8% in 2024–2025—a meaningful step forward during an incredibly important stage of a child’s development. Because third-grade reading proficiency is strongly associated with high school graduation and long-term success, these gains matter.
Every fall, United Way volunteers assemble bookbags filled with engaging, age-appropriate titles designed to spark curiosity, build confidence, and inspire a lifelong love of reading. With each book delivered—and with each book coupon generously provided by Daniel Boone Regional Library—we move one step closer to a community where every child has the foundation they need to thrive.