The United Way of Berks County has announced opportunities available for summer learning grants.
The grants are open to schools and organizations serving prekindergarten through third grade students in Berks.
Improving early grade reading and building a strong community are at the center of United Way’s work, the organization said in a release.
“Early literacy is one of the strongest predictors of academic success, economic stability and community well-being,” said Tammy White, president of the nonprofit. “It is important for children to be exposed to and connected with literacy and learning activities yearlong, including the summer months.”
United Way’s grant opportunities help students retain academic skills and lessen the summer learning loss, she noted.
The grants of up to $5,000 are available to help cover expenses related to summer programming June through August.
Proposed programming must include a literacy component but may include cross-discipline activities, such as science, technology, engineering, art and math, or STEAM.
All programs must include an evaluation element to measure the outcome or success of the literacy component.
Applications will be accepted Jan. 12 through Feb. 15. Notice of funding will be made by March 27, with grants awarded in April.
A committee of community volunteers, including representatives of United Way committee and board members, will review and evaluate applications, including programming plans.
Grant proposals and final reports must be electronically submitted via e-CImpact, a software tool accessed via United Way’s website, uwberks.org.
Full eligibility requirements and details are also available at the same website.
For questions or technical assistance with e-CImpact, contact Amanda Hansen, community impact program manager, at amandah@uwberks.org or 610-685-4582.