Program Overview

Real Men Read / Real Women Read is a signature literacy initiative of Recreational Inner-City Sports and Education, Inc. (R.I.S.E.) designed to inspire children and young adults to develop a lifelong love of reading by connecting them with positive adult role models from their own communities. The program brings together fathers, mothers, grandparents, educators, coaches, business leaders, first responders, military veterans, college students, and community volunteers to read aloud, mentor, and encourage students to see literacy as a pathway to opportunity and success. By seeing successful men and women proudly reading, discussing books, and sharing their life experiences, young people gain confidence in their own abilities while recognizing that reading is a lifelong skill for everyone.

Real Leaders Read. Real Success Begins With a Book.

Mission
To improve literacy, strengthen families, and build confident readers by connecting youth with caring role models who demonstrate that reading opens doors to education, careers, leadership, and lifelong success.
Program Goals
Increase reading proficiency and comprehension.  Encourage daily reading habits at home and at school.  Promote positive male and female role models.  Strengthen family engagement in literacy.  Build confidence, communication, and critical thinking skills.  Foster leadership and community involvement.
Program Activities
Monthly community reading eventsSchool classroom reading visits  Family Literacy Nights  Book giveaways and personal home libraries  Summer Reading Challenge  Author visits and book discussions  Reading mentorship circles  Reading celebrations and recognition ceremonies
Who Can Participate

Elementary, middle, and high school students Parents and caregivers Teachers and school administrators Community organizations Local businesses Faith-based organizations

Colleges and universities Law enforcement, firefighters,

healthcare professionals, military veterans, and civic leaders

R.I.S.E. Commitment

R.I.S.E. believes literacy is one of the greatest tools for breaking cycles of poverty and expanding opportunity. Through the Real Men Read / Real Women Read Program, we are building stronger readers, stronger families, and stronger communities—one book, one mentor and one child at a time.

Expected Outcomes

Participants will:  Read more frequently and improve literacy skills.  Develop stronger communication and vocabulary.  Increase self-confidence and academic engagement.  Build meaningful relationships with positive mentors.  View reading as both enjoyable and essential to future success.

Get Involved with RISE

Join us in empowering youth and strengthening communities through sports and education.
Email : gclifton@nycrise.com
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