Early childhood literacy in the Chattahoochee Valley is a vital foundation for lifelong learning and success. Children who develop strong reading skills before entering elementary school are more likely to succeed academically, graduate from high school, and thrive in their communities. The Chattahoochee Valley Imagination Library (CVIL), in partnership with United Way’s Community Schools program and the Rotary Club of Columbus, is helping local children build these skills.

The Challenge and the Response: Promoting Early Childhood Literacy in the Chattahoochee Valley

Teachers in our Community Schools program wanted to enhance the book-giving experience for children. Around the same time, the Rotary Club of Columbus began donating to CVIL in 2024 and sought a more active role in fostering early literacy.

As a result, CVIL, the Rotary Club, and United Way launched Rotary Readers in the 2024–2025 school year. Volunteers visit MLK Elementary, Brewer Elementary, and Dorothy Heights Elementary. Each month, they read the book of the month to pre-K students and help with two short learning activities designed by CVIL. Children take the book home, encouraging reading with family.

A Resounding Success for Early Childhood Literacy in the Chattahoochee Valley

Teachers, students, and volunteers all report positive experiences. Children look forward to monthly visits, enjoy reading with volunteers, and actively participate in learning activities. Families benefit because children bring books home and share stories with caregivers.

Encouraged by the program’s success, Rotary Readers is expanding to include kindergarten and first-grade classes at the same schools. This expansion will provide additional opportunities to strengthen early childhood literacy in the Chattahoochee Valley.

Why Early Reading Matters

Early reading experiences improve academic and life outcomes. Research confirms that children who develop strong literacy skills early are more likely to graduate from high school, perform well in school, and achieve career success.

• According to the Get Georgia Reading campaign, children not reading proficiently by the end of third grade are four times more likely to drop out of high school (source).
• Nearly 9 out of 10 Georgia students who exceeded expectations on third-grade reading tests later graduated from high school, compared to 6 out of 10 of those who did not (source).
• In Alabama, children in the First Class Pre-K program were more likely to remain proficient in reading and math through at least seventh grade (source).
• The Georgia Pre-K longitudinal study showed that high-quality early learning improves health, behavior, and academics (source).

These studies confirm that programs like Rotary Readers help children build a strong foundation in literacy, improving outcomes for families and communities.

How Rotary Readers Strengthen Early Childhood Literacy in the Chattahoochee Valley

The program succeeds by combining reading, interactive learning, and community engagement:

• Community involvement: Volunteers provide children personal attention and encouragement.
• Home-to-school connection: Each child receives a book to read with family, reinforcing skills learned at school.
• Engaging activities: Learning games after each story improve comprehension, vocabulary, and critical thinking.
• Grade expansion: Including kindergarten and first grade ensures continued growth in reading skills.

Explore United Way volunteer opportunities to support literacy programs.

Looking Ahead

CVIL and United Way will track reading habits, caregiver engagement, and classroom outcomes to ensure lasting impact. The program may expand to additional schools and include summer reading events. Caregivers can continue supporting their children by reading together daily and discussing the stories.

A Community Effort

Parents, caregivers, and local organizations play an essential role. Every book shared and every volunteer hour strengthens early childhood literacy in the Chattahoochee Valley. Together, we can help children develop a love of reading and the skills they need to succeed.