Read With Me introduces families to the pleasure and value of reading together, encourages active and positive relationships with schools, and connects families with local libraries and adult education programs.  The program is facilitated in Head Start sites throughout the Tri-County Literacy service area as well as in kindergartens and first grades in Bath City schools.  The Verizon grant will allow Tri-County Literacy to expand Read With Me to 8 sessions at least for the 2007-2008 academic year in the 9 local Head Start sites.

“According to the most recent National Assessment of Adult Literacy, approximately 14% of the U.S. adult population has below basic literacy skills,” said Darlene Marciniak, Tri-County Literacy Executive Director.  “Tri-County Literacy is working to change that statistic.  Our Read With Me program strives to help our most vulnerable young citizens avoid the challenges of poor literacy.  Verizon's generous contribution will help us in that effort.”

This sponsorship is part of the ongoing support Verizon provides to local communities throughout the country.  Verizon funds programs that address the heart of social issues such as literacy, technology education, and domestic violence.  Since 2000, Verizon has invested more than $400 million in the United States and around the world to help others.

Founded in 1970, Tri-County Literacy provides literacy programs to adults, children, and families in Lincoln, Sagadahoc, and Northeastern Cumberland Counties.  The mission of Tri-County Literacy is to improve people's lives through improved literacy.  Services are provided in two major programs: Literacy Volunteers, whose programs serve adult learners, and Read With Me Family Literacy Project, to whom Verizon funds were awarded.  Tri-County Literacy serves approximately 630 individuals annually.  For more information, contact Tri-County Literacy at 443-6384 or toll-free at 877-885-7441.