USF Health Reach Out and Read

Who We Are

USF Reach Out and Read (ROR) is a national pediatric literacy program with a presence in over 4,900 clinics across the United States. Our mission is to foster early literacy and school readiness in young children, starting at their first newborn visit. We leverage the trusted relationship between parents and medical providers to instill essential early reading skills in children. ROR integrates parent education about literacy development into routine pediatric care, making it a standard part of well-child visits.

Our program involves giving children from birth through 5 years old a new book at each health supervision visit, coupled with guidance from pediatricians and nurse practitioners. Additionally, our clinic waiting rooms feature community volunteers, including university students, who engage children with books, reading and other book-related interactions. The selection of books is carefully curated to be developmentally and culturally appropriate, and our aim is to ensure that children grow up with books and a love for reading.

What We Do

The project tackles a critical challenge facing children's education and development. The early years are a crucial time for laying the foundation for literacy and school readiness. Unfortunately, not all children have equal access to books and the guidance they need. We address this challenge by integrating literacy development into pediatric care, reaching over 4 million children annually and empowering parents with the tools and knowledge to nurture early reading skills.

Your Impact

ROR's impact extends far beyond the clinic walls. By distributing age-appropriate books during well-child visits and offering parents guidance on reading, we are transforming the lives of young children, especially those from underserved communities. We're not just promoting literacy; we're fostering a lifelong love for reading, which has a ripple effect on their academic success, self-esteem and future opportunities. By supporting ROR, you're investing in the educational foundation of our future leaders.

USF Faculty and Staff: You can give online through this site or complete this payroll deduction form (enter fund #250092, Reach Out & Read Program) and email it to fscampaign@usf.edu

What Your Generosity Will Do

Your generosity will directly contribute to the growth and sustainability of the Reach Out and Read program. Gifts help ensure that children from all backgrounds have access to the educational resources they need by enabling us to provide more books and continue our vital work in integrating parent education about literacy development into pediatric care. With your help, we can create a brighter future for children, empowering them with the gift of literacy and a love for reading.

Appreciation

We want to express our sincere appreciation for your generosity. Your support is the cornerstone of our mission, and it makes a lasting impact on the lives of children and families. Together, we are building a brighter future, one filled with the joy of reading and the promise of a successful education. Thank you for being a vital part of our Reach Out and Read family and for helping us make a difference in the lives of young learners across the nation.

Spread the Word

We are counting on your help! Make an even bigger impact by sharing your support of this campaign using the social media tools at the top of this page.

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Foster a love of reading by supporting the USF Reach Out and Read program at usf.to/ROR. Your gift, no matter the size, makes a difference and helps provide books for young children! Thank you and go Bulls! 🤘
#USFPediatrics #ReachOutandRead