Turning Pages, Sparking Imaginations

March is National Reading Month—a time dedicated to celebrating the power of books and the importance of early literacy. At United Way of Greater Central Michigan, this month is more than a celebration—it’s a call to action.

Through our Read United initiative, we’re bringing stories to life for children across mid-Michigan while reinforcing a simple but powerful goal: helping more children build the skills and confidence they need to succeed.

For all 31 days of March, volunteers from across the region—from hairstylists and bankers to doctors, dance instructors, and executive directors—have come together to share their love of reading. Each day, a new video of a community member reading a children’s book is available on our YouTube channel, making stories easily accessible to teachers, parents, and students at home.

By showcasing such a wide variety of readers, Read United helps children see that literacy matters in every career and every corner of the community. View the full Read United playlist here.

Why Literacy Matters

Early literacy is one of the strongest predictors of long-term success in school and beyond. Annie Sanders, President & CEO of United Way of Greater Central Michigan explains: “State assessments, including M-STEP data from Gratiot-Isabella RESD districts, show that fewer than half of third grade students are reading at grade level, with about 38% testing at or above proficiency,” she says. “These gaps highlight the importance of consistent access to books, engaging reading experiences and opportunities to build skills both in and out of the classroom.”

Read United is about more than reading aloud—it’s about connection. By hearing stories from a variety of voices and perspectives, children are exposed to new ideas while building confidence in their own reading abilities. This sense of community support reinforces positive reading habits and helps students stay engaged.

Supporting Literacy Year-Round

While March shines a spotlight on reading, United Way’s commitment to literacy continues all year long. We invest in programs that ensure children and families have the resources they need to succeed. This includes support for initiatives like Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library and Sleepy Dog Books Foundation. In fact, during March, United Way is proud to offer a $10,000 Matching Grant to the Sleepy Dog Books Foundation—helping expand access to books for even more children in our community.

Would you like to be featured in next year’s Read United playlist? Let us know!