About Us
The Mission
Project Read provides a one-on-one tutorial program to enable functionally non-literate adults to improve their reading and writing skills sufficiently to meet their personal goals, function well in society, and become more productive citizens. Project Read tutors and staff respect the uniqueness of each individual and seek to enhance self-esteem through successful personal study and group interaction.
The Programs
Project Read offers programs for both English and Spanish speakers looking to improve their reading and writing skills in either language.
The Students
• Students are at least 16 years of age.
• Students pay an annual $10 fee.
• Students are able to speak English (Spanish if involved in the Spanish Literacy Program).
• Students need help to achieve an eighth-grade reading level.
The Volunteers
• Volunteers perform a variety of tasks including fundraising, public relations, and office work; however, the majority of Project Read’s volunteers receive training to serve as tutors.
• Volunteer tutors commit to give at least six months of service.
• Volunteer tutors can speak, read, and write English fluently (Spanish if involved in the Spanish Literacy Program).
• Volunteer tutors commit to twice-weekly 1.5-hour tutoring sessions, plus any preparation and travel time.
• Volunteer tutors commit to attend a 4-hour training session and bi-monthly skill enhancement workshops.
The History
• Project Read began in 1984 through the efforts of the Provo and Orem City Libraries, the Provo City School District , and other concerned members of the community.
• Project Read expanded its tutorial sites to include the Provo, Orem, and Payson City Libraries; Deseret Industries; the Alpine Life & Learning Center; the Center for High School Studies; the Scenic View Center; the Food & Care Coalition; Brigham Young University; Utah Valley State College; and other local libraries in order to better serve all of Utah County.
What’s New
• In January 2009, Project Read commenced its first Health Literacy course. The curriculum lasted 10 weeks and covered many areas of basic personal and family health care. The course will continue to be taught in 10-week increments twice each year (Fall and Winter).
In September 2008, Project Read hosted its second annual Spelling Bee. Last year’s champs, the Marians, came in second, coming in closely behind the 2009 winners, Dream Team Deleyne! Please join us this year for our 3rd year of spelling fun.
• In 2007, Project Read held a Barnes & Noble Book Fair Fundraiser as well as a Scholastic Book Fair Fundraiser. Watch for other exciting fundraising opportunities for Project Read.
• In 2006, the Project Read Board of Trustees created a vision statement for Project Read: Changing Lives Through Literacy. This statement encapsulates what Project Read is trying to accomplish and the impact it has on the lives of its students.
