Book Buddies

Book Buddies is a literacy-focused program that pairs volunteers with children in grades K-4 who struggle with reading. Volunteers provide individualized support through weekly one-on-one reading sessions, fostering improved fluency, comprehension, and reading confidence.

By creating a positive and engaging environment, Book Buddies not only helps children strengthen their reading skills but also inspires a lifelong love of books and learning.

Classroom Buddies

Classroom Buddies focuses on pre-K through 2nd-grade students. Volunteers read aloud to groups of children to encourage early literacy skills, language development, and a love for books. The dialogic reading strategies used in Classroom Buddies engage groups of children in positive, interactive reading experiences.

Math Buddies

Recognizing the importance of foundational math skills alongside literacy, Math Buddies pairs volunteers with students needing extra support in basic math concepts. Volunteers work one-on-one or in small groups to build math confidence and proficiency through engaging, hands-on activities tailored to individual student needs.

Why Book Buddies Matters

 

  • In 2023, only 22% of 4th-grade, minority, and low-income students in the areas we serve were proficient on the NYS ELA exam.
  • Low-income and minority students, particularly affected by COVID-19 learning loss, are most at risk of falling behind.
  • Research shows that children who cannot read proficiently by the end of 3rd grade are 4 times more likely to drop out of high school, limiting their future opportunities.

 

Book Buddies addresses this urgent need by providing individualized reading support during the school day, ensuring accessibility, and removing barriers for families.

Book Buddies

Program Impact

 

  • Volunteers are carefully recruited, trained, and supported to provide targeted reading and math practice using evidence-based strategies and leveled materials.
  • Students improve fluency, comprehension, and confidence, creating a strong foundation for academic success.
  • Math Buddies provides additional academic support to address gaps in numeracy skills, which are critical for long-term success.
Become a Volunteer

Volunteer Engagement

Volunteers are the backbone of all our programs. Book Buddies, Classroom, and Math Buddies volunteers commit just one hour per week to make a life-changing impact. Literacy Connections provides training, materials, and ongoing support to ensure their success.

Success Stories

Liam struggled with addition and subtraction, but working with his Math Buddy, he now solves problems confidently and enjoys math time at school.

Gael has learned to pause at the end of sentences and pronounce ‘th’ correctly, making huge strides in fluency and confidence.

Erick is so proud of how much easier reading feels now. He’s mastering sight words and loving books about woodland animals.