The Virginia Beach GrowSmart Foundation is kicking off the “Gift of Reading Donation Drive” to benefit First Grade READS. Our goal is to inspire a love of reading and provide books to first graders that participate in the program. You can purchase books directly through the foundation’s Amazon Wishlist or make a donation online to benefit the Book Drive.

First Grade READS is an award-winning literacy tutoring program in Virginia Beach. By pairing striving first grade readers with caring community volunteer tutors/mentors we assist children in becoming confident, successful readers. Tutors receive training in effective instructional techniques and increasing student engagement. Each month the children are given one free take home book to build their home library and encourage reading outside of school.

Studies show that a child not reading at grade level by the end of first grade has an 88% chance of not reading at grade level by the end of fourth grade and children not reading proficiently by third grade are 4 times more likely to drop out of school.

For more information about First Grade READS or to learn about volunteer opportunities, please contact vbgrowsmart@vbgov.com or call 757-385-6495.