ABOUT US

RAP is an innovative family program that brings parents and children together for six sessions during one school semester and motivates them to read. The program is conducted at host schools which provide meeting space, volunteers, and logistical support. The host schools pay a small fee, and the majority of RAP expenses are funded The Department of Human Services with smaller grants and contributions from local businesses and individual supporters.

This unique family literacy program draws parents and children together for six sessions every other week in the early evening to share good books. Its goals are to reach families and stimulate their interest in reading, decrease television viewing, increase family time spent in reading activities, and connect the values of good books to everyday life. Families who participate in RAP build Family Reading Handbooks and receive free books, reading lists, and dinners. 

The 1985 Commission on Reading's report, Becoming a Nation of Readers, concluded, "The single most important activity for building the knowledge required for eventual success in reading is reading aloud to children." RAP provides reading experiences for adults and children and suggests how to read aloud and select appropriate books. Adults and older student volunteers serve as readers and positive role models. Through purposeful, nurturing interactions, RAP builds reading confidence in children and adults.
 

1. Children and adults experience the joy of reading for pleasure, often for the first time, and read more on their own. Reading with RAP volunteers builds self-confidence and motivates program participants to spend more time with books.

2. Parents learn the importance of reading with their children to help them become better readers.

3. Children learn that books are exciting and stories relate to everyday life.

4. Volunteers enjoy meaningful, rewarding experiences and have the satisfaction of knowing they are making a positive impact on children's lives.

5. Teachers have new resources to help their students become more interested in reading and receptive to learning.

6. Companies who support Read Aloud America strengthen their customer base and enrich their local communities.

Read Aloud America relies on contributions of time and money from individuals, companies, and foundations. To find out how you can get involved, or how your organization can help, please call (808) 531-1985, fax (808) 593-1984 or email: read@readaloudamerica.org.