United Way of Cayuga County is touting the success of its newest initiative to improve literacy rates and attendance at Auburn schools.
Book Buddies, a partnership between United Way and the Auburn Enlarged City School District, is a mentorship program that brings together community members and second graders to help students develop literacy and social skills. The initiative launched during the 2024-25 academic year as a pilot program, seeing 14 Genesee Elementary students paired with volunteers to meet twice a month at the school’s library to read together during lunch.
“Through this program, students experienced the joy of reading alongside caring volunteers who dedicated quality time to mentorship. This mentorship proved to be beneficial, contributing to a notable increase in student attendance. Some students reduced their absences by over 50% compared to last year,” said Karen DiVietro, AECSD Director of Education, Community Engagement, and Special Programs.
Students in the program were identified by their teachers early in the school year.
Volunteers were vetted by both United Way and the school district before the program launched.
Books used in the program came from the school’s library, meaning no funding was required for the pilot program.
According to United Way, 42% of program participants increased their attendance records compared to last year.
Because of the program’s success, Book Buddies will continue at Genesee in the fall. United Way also hopes to expand the program to other schools within the Auburn School District as well as other districts in Cayuga County.
Those interested in volunteering for Book Buddies or seeking more information on the initiative should contact United Way Office & Programs Assistant Administrator Sarah Sayles at [email protected].
Have all the Finger Lakes news from Finger Lakes News Radio delivered to your email every morning for FREE! Sign up by clicking her
