United Way Mobilizes Volunteers to Help Close Child Literacy Gaps on Read Across America Day

East Hartford, Conn. (March 5, 2026) – United Way of Central and Northeastern Connecticut mobilized 225 volunteers from 60 companies and the community at large to read to 4,500 local students on Read Across America Day, an annual event that fosters the joy of reading to young children. Read Across America Day is one of the signature United Way 860Cares volunteer activations designed to connect people with resources and opportunities to give back.

“United Way is committed to closing literacy gaps for students in the 860 region. Reading fuels curiosity, supports key academic and developmental milestones, and opens doors to success in school and beyond,” said Eric Harrison, President and CEO, United Way of Central and Northeastern Connecticut. “By rallying hundreds of dedicated volunteers, United Way cultivates meaningful impact for local children. We are deeply grateful to every volunteer who shares their time and talent to help students flourish.”  

American Eagle Financial Credit Union (American Eagle), a lead Read Across America Day sponsor, donated books for volunteers to read to each participating classroom so students could revisit the story throughout the academic year.

“At American Eagle, we believe strong communities start with strong foundations – and literacy is one of the most important building blocks for kids,” said Howard Brady, President and CEO of American Eagle Financial Credit Union. “We’re proud to partner with United Way for Read Across America Day to help make reading more accessible in the communities we serve and inspire local children to develop a lifelong love of learning. When we invest in our youth today, we’re helping build a brighter future for tomorrow.”

This year, volunteers read the book “See Marcus Grow” by Marcus Bridgewater to 45 schools across United Way’s service area. The story centers on a young boy who explores his grandmother’s garden and discovers the similarities between individual growth and growth in nature – a theme meaningful to RTX, a lead Read Across America Day sponsor. 

Following the read-aloud, children participated in an enrichment activity that complemented the storyline and underscored a positive reading experience.

Special guests who joined United Way for Read Across America Day include: East Hartford Mayor, Connor Martin; New Britain Mayor, Bobby Sanchez; Bloomfield Mayor, Anthony Harrington; New Britain Alderwoman Luz Ortiz-Luna; and, Tyler V. R. Booth, Incoming President and CEO of InterCommunity.