International Paper & Champions for Literacy Team Up to Boost Childhood Reading
International Paper, headquartered in Memphis, has reaffirmed its dedication to advancing childhood literacy by continuing its partnership with Champions for Literacy (formerly Coaching for Literacy) for the ninth consecutive year as the organization’s signature partner.
"Reading proficiency by third grade is a key indicator of future academic and career success. No matter where a child grows up, if they are reading at grade level by the end of third grade, there is an 89% likelihood they will graduate high school and pursue a career. Few causes bridge economic divides as significantly as this one," said Jason Baker, Executive Director of Champions for Literacy. "Educators and organizations like ours are committed to ensuring every child gains essential reading skills, and support from partners like International Paper provides the critical resources needed. We leverage the power of sports to bring attention to this important cause."
As a presenting sponsor of the national Fight for Literacy Games, International Paper helps Champions for Literacy collaborate with college sports teams to generate awareness and funding for literacy initiatives. The funds raised from these events are distributed to local partners to support literacy programs for children from birth through third grade. Previous grants have been used for tutoring services, summer literacy camps, and the distribution of age-appropriate reading materials for students and classrooms.
"Literacy is the cornerstone of education, and strengthening it is essential to shaping the leaders of tomorrow," said Dynisha Woods, Manager of Community Engagement at International Paper.
"By working with Champions for Literacy, we are able to positively impact tens of thousands of students and numerous literacy-focused organizations across the country. We remain dedicated to this partnership and inspired by the meaningful change we can create through the Fight for Literacy initiative."
Since joining forces with Champions for Literacy nine years ago, International Paper has provided direct grant funding to 40 literacy organizations in over 20 states. This year, Champions for Literacy has secured a record 88 collegiate athletic teams to host Fight for Literacy Games, marking its largest participation to date.
"Reading proficiency by third grade is a key indicator of future academic and career success. No matter where a child grows up, if they are reading at grade level by the end of third grade, there is an 89% likelihood they will graduate high school and pursue a career. Few causes bridge economic divides as significantly as this one," said Jason Baker, Executive Director of Champions for Literacy. "Educators and organizations like ours are committed to ensuring every child gains essential reading skills, and support from partners like International Paper provides the critical resources needed. We leverage the power of sports to bring attention to this important cause."
As a presenting sponsor of the national Fight for Literacy Games, International Paper helps Champions for Literacy collaborate with college sports teams to generate awareness and funding for literacy initiatives. The funds raised from these events are distributed to local partners to support literacy programs for children from birth through third grade. Previous grants have been used for tutoring services, summer literacy camps, and the distribution of age-appropriate reading materials for students and classrooms.
"Literacy is the cornerstone of education, and strengthening it is essential to shaping the leaders of tomorrow," said Dynisha Woods, Manager of Community Engagement at International Paper.
"By working with Champions for Literacy, we are able to positively impact tens of thousands of students and numerous literacy-focused organizations across the country. We remain dedicated to this partnership and inspired by the meaningful change we can create through the Fight for Literacy initiative."
Since joining forces with Champions for Literacy nine years ago, International Paper has provided direct grant funding to 40 literacy organizations in over 20 states. This year, Champions for Literacy has secured a record 88 collegiate athletic teams to host Fight for Literacy Games, marking its largest participation to date.
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