"The function of education is to teach one to think intensively and to think critically. Intelligence plus character - that is the goal of true education."
- Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

The deplorable assault last week on our Nation's Capitol and democratic institutions continues to shine a light on the injustices, marginalization, and the unresolved systemic issues in our country.

These violent acts fray the very fabric of our humanity. We believe that early education is a key to unlocking awareness, acceptance of others (windows and mirrors), and respect for each other's differences. 

We all continue to act resolutely about our mission to close the literacy opportunity gap. Each of us must play a role in investing in learning, teaching, researching, thinking critically, and building our character. Together, we can provide the fundamental skills that will enlighten our children of today and tomorrow.
Special Delivery at Dorchester's Shaw School

At Raising A Reader MA (RAR-MA), we've continued to pivot in response to the current pandemic to ensure that children and families receive the tools and resources they need to learn. We've recently partnered with The Vertex Foundation, our honoree for the RAR-MA 2021 Community Strategic Partnership Award, and The Learning Company to put tablets preloaded with e-books and other supports into the hands of children in Massachusetts. Just before the holidays, 60 tablets were distributed to families at the Pauline A. Shaw School in Dorchester.

Read about the event by clicking here.
2020 Annual and Impact Reports Now Available

Like every other person and organization during the COVID-19 pandemic, the last year proved to be one of challenges and successes for Raising A Reader MA.

We're so grateful to each of the donors and organizations who partnered with us and generously gave to provide the funding that's necessary to keep our work moving forward to end the literacy opportunity gap.

Take some time to read our:
Welcoming Shelley Wilson to the Board of Directors

We're pleased to announce that Shelley Wilson, Marketing Director at PwC U.S., has joined the Raising A Reader MA (RAR-MA) Board of Directors.

Shelley brings a wealth of experience and knowledge, which are supplemented by her deep dedication to advancing the mission and work of RAR-MA.

Learn more about Shelley by clicking here.
A Moment of Gratitude
THANK YOU!

Because of your generosity and support, we exceeded our fundraising goal.

With your donations and a matching $20,000 gift from the Nan Haar Legacy Foundation and DarwinProject.org, we raised $55,502.05.

You made that possible, and we're so grateful!
STEM Kits Distributed in Springfield

Through a Springfield City-wide Early Literacy initiative, the Springfield Museums provided partners in the city with STEM kits to distribute among families. In December, the Museums awarded Raising A Reader MA with 100 kits that went to three childcare providers and one community-based playgroup.

A big thank you to Jenny Powers, Family Engagement Coordinator at the Springfield Museums and Dr. Seuss Memorial Sculpture Garden, as well as MEFA and the UFund College Investing Plan.
Events
Mark your calendars! More details will be coming soon.
You don't want to miss this evening of celebration. We'll see you there!
Opening doors by
opening books.
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