The YMCA of Rock River Valley is proud to announce a $25,000 grant from the Derry Family Foundation to expand literacy programming for youth across the greater Rockford region. This investment will support the addition of a sixth literacy instructor, enabling the Y to provide structured literacy instruction to an additional 60 youth each week through its Kids’ Time Before and After School program. It will also improve access to family engagement opportunities, reaching more than 50 additional families through four Family Literacy Nights, along with literacy games and educational materials to support reading engagement both in program settings and at home.
“This grant from the Derry Family Foundation enables us to expand literacy support where it matters most – early, consistently, intentionally, and in partnership with families,” said Megan Larson, Grant Specialist for the Y. “We know from extensive research that reading proficiency is a strong predictor of long-term success – academically, socially, emotionally, economically, and in overall health outcomes. This funding helps ensure more children and families have the skills, support, and access needed to build strong reading habits and a lasting connection to literacy.”
The Derry Family Foundation is dedicated to advancing educational opportunities and supporting scholars throughout the Rockford community. “We are thrilled to partner with the YMCA—an organization that has long played a vital role in enriching lives and strengthening our community,” said Diane Derry on behalf of the family.
Developed in partnership with the United way of Rock River Valley’s United for Literacy program, the Y has scaled its capacity to deliver literacy programming across the region. Guided by its Bold Goal of 75% of third-graders reading at grade level or above by 2034, sustained investment from United Way has made this growth possible and continues to drive long-term impact.
“This funding comes at a critical time,” said Tina Smith, School-Age Program Director, YMCA of Rock River Valley. “According to local data, only approximately one-third of third-grade students in Winnebago County are reading at grade level. Investments like this help expand access to literacy resources and support efforts to improve long-term academic outcomes for youth.”
