United Way Announces Summer Learning Grant Opportunities – Berks Community Television

United Way of Berks County Advances Early Grade Reading Proficiency Aligned with Sustainable Development Goals

Introduction

The United Way of Berks County is dedicated to enhancing early grade reading proficiency and fostering a resilient community. This initiative aligns closely with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4: Quality Education, and SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities. To support this mission, the organization is offering Summer Learning Grants aimed at Pre-K through 3rd-grade students in Berks County.

Summer Learning Grants Overview

The Summer Learning Grants provide financial support of up to $5,000 for schools and nonprofit organizations to implement summer programs focused on literacy and learning retention. These grants are designed to combat summer learning loss, ensuring continuous educational engagement during the summer months, which is critical for academic success and long-term economic stability.

Grant Eligibility and Requirements

• Applicants: Schools and 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations serving Pre-K to 3rd-grade students in Berks County.
• Funding Amount: Up to $5,000 per grant.
• Program Duration: Summer 2026 (June through August).
• Program Content: Must include a literacy component; cross-disciplinary activities such as STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) are encouraged.
• Evaluation: All programs must incorporate an evaluation mechanism to measure literacy outcomes and program success.

Application Process and Timeline

1. Application Period: January 12 to February 15, 2026.
2. Notification of Awards: By March 27, 2026.
3. Grant Disbursement: April 2026.

Applications and final reports must be submitted electronically via e-CImpact, accessible through the United Way of Berks County website (www.uwberks.org).

Review and Selection

A committee composed of community volunteers, United Way committee members, and board representatives will conduct a competitive review of all proposals. The evaluation will focus on programming plans and the potential impact on early literacy development.

Contact Information

• Community Impact Program Manager: Amanda Hansen
• Email: amandah@uwberks.org
• Phone: 610-685-4582

Alignment with Sustainable Development Goals

• SDG 4: Quality Education – Enhancing early literacy supports inclusive and equitable quality education and promotes lifelong learning opportunities for all children.
• SDG 1: No Poverty – Early literacy proficiency contributes to economic stability and reduces poverty risks by improving academic and employment outcomes.
• SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities – Providing equitable access to literacy programs helps bridge educational gaps among underserved populations.
• SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities – Building a strong, educated community fosters sustainable development and social cohesion.

For further details and to apply, visit the United Way of Berks County website at www.uwberks.org.

1. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Addressed

1. SDG 4: Quality Education
   • The article focuses on improving early grade reading proficiency, which directly relates to ensuring inclusive and equitable quality education and promoting lifelong learning opportunities for all.
2. SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities
   • By targeting early literacy in Pre-K through 3rd-grade students, especially through grants to schools and nonprofits, the initiative aims to reduce educational disparities and promote equal opportunities.
3. SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth
   • Early literacy is linked to economic stability and community well-being, which supports the goal of promoting sustained, inclusive economic growth and productive employment.

2. Specific Targets Under the Identified SDGs

1. SDG 4: Quality Education
   • Target 4.1: Ensure that all girls and boys complete free, equitable and quality primary and secondary education leading to relevant and effective learning outcomes.
   • Target 4.2: Ensure that all girls and boys have access to quality early childhood development, care and pre-primary education so that they are ready for primary education.
2. SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities
   • Target 10.2: Empower and promote the social, economic and political inclusion of all, irrespective of age, sex, disability, race, ethnicity, origin, religion or economic or other status.
3. SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth
   • Target 8.6: By 2020, substantially reduce the proportion of youth not in employment, education or training.

3. Indicators Mentioned or Implied to Measure Progress

1. Literacy Proficiency Measurement
   • The article mentions that all programs must include an evaluation element to measure the outcome or success of the literacy component, implying the use of literacy proficiency assessments as an indicator.
2. Retention of Academic Skills
   • Summer learning grants aim to lessen summer learning loss, suggesting indicators related to retention of reading skills over summer months.
3. Participation Rates
   • Number of students served in Pre-K through 3rd grade participating in summer literacy programs can serve as an indicator of reach and inclusiveness.

4. Table: SDGs, Targets and Indicators

Source: bctv.org