Help kids foster a love for reading.
The United Way of the Midlands Reading Consortium (MRC) was formed to increase the number of children reading at grade level at the start of fourth grade.
By engaging our volunteers to read with students throughout the school year, these consistent one-on-one interactions help to build comprehension, literacy, and vocabulary skills. The program supports Richland, Lexington, Fairfield, Orangeburg, Calhoun, and Newberry counties.
We make it easy:
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No experience necessary!
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Literacy trainings
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30 minutes weekly
register for the 2023-24 school year
MRC Offers:
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One-on-One Reading Sessions: A volunteer who reads with a designated student from October to May.
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*Newly Added* STEM Pilot Program: A volunteer who assists students in select schools with math and science activities.
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Guest Readers: A volunteer who reads in person to prekindergarten through third-grade classes during holiday-themed events or special school-oriented events. Contact Delia Brooks.
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Book Donations: Ongoing opportunities for individuals or companies to donate grade-level appropriate books to help build MRC students at home libraries. Contact the United Way Volunteer Center.
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Summer Reading Camps: Upon request, MRC staff and volunteers help elementary school students across the Midlands through 1-on-1 Reading Sessions at summer reading camps.
- MRC Amazon Book Request Wish List
Volunteer Testimonial
"What a difference this program makes."
Richland County Librarian Heather McCue talks about what she gets out of volunteering for the Midlands Reading Consortium.
Don't have time? Or can't volunteer this year? Consider donating to the United Way Midlands Reading Consortium. Please indicate “MRC” for your donation.
Library of Services
Last year, United Way supporters helped nearly 800 elementary students improve their reading skills through the Midlands Reading Consortium (MRC). United Way has programs like MRC because 35 percent of children in our community entering fourth grade are not reading on grade level — and those who aren’t are four times less likely to graduate on time. United Way provides these children with a volunteer, as well as a safe place to learn, after-school activities, mentors, books and summer programs to keep them on track to graduate and have a successful life.