Growing Readers and Strengthening Community: The Children's Literacy Network's Mission
In communities across Washtenaw County, thousands of children have limited access to books and reading programs that could shape their educational future. The reading achievement gap between under-resourced students and their peers creates barriers that can last a lifetime. For more than 30 years, The Children's Literacy Network (CLN) has been working to change this narrative.
CLN is a volunteer-based nonprofit organization that has provided free literacy programs to over 300,000 young readers, distributing more than $1 million worth of new, high-quality books to low-income children. Their mission is clear: to design and implement literacy-based programs that provide equitable opportunities for children to develop a genuine love of reading and books.
What sets CLN apart is its comprehensive approach to literacy development. Through innovative programming at early childhood and school-age levels, they foster lifelong learners while building confidence, creativity, and critical thinking skills that serve children throughout their lives.
One of CLN's standout programs is Reader's Theater, which transforms reading from a solitary activity into an engaging, performance-based experience. Children bring stories to life through dramatic interpretation, improving reading fluency, building public speaking confidence, and making literature accessible and exciting. Teachers and parents consistently report that children who participate in Reader's Theater show remarkable growth in both reading ability and overall self-confidence.
Laura Tackett, owner of Agile Accounting, volunteers as CLN's Treasurer as part of her commitment to community investment. Laura experienced the transformative power of literacy programming when her daughter participated in a similar reading initiative. "I was amazed at the progress she made," Laura recalls. "Not only did she enjoy the activities, but she also experienced no summer slide in her standardized testing. Her reading skills improved significantly, and she was more confident in her abilities." This experience reinforced Laura's belief in the power of literacy programs and motivated her to continue contributing to CLN's efforts.
CLN's early childhood initiatives work to prevent achievement gaps before they take root. Since literacy development starts long before formal schooling begins, these programs empower parents and caregivers with tools to support their children's reading development at home.
Community support makes all of this possible. Events like CLN's signature fundraiser, "A Night for The Books," bring together local businesses, families, and literacy advocates. Companies understand that investing in children's literacy strengthens the entire region's economic and social fabric while building a more educated and skilled workforce. Year-round volunteer opportunities offer flexible ways to contribute, from classroom reading sessions to administrative support, welcoming contributors with varied skills and availability.
For over 30 years, The Children's Literacy Network has demonstrated that every child deserves access to books, reading support, and the opportunity to discover the joy of literacy. When a community rallies around this shared mission, remarkable things happen.
To learn more about The Children's Literacy Network or upcoming events, visit www.childrensliteracynetwork.org or call (734) 255-3997.