Skip to main content

Aspire United Volunteer Series presented by


United Way Reading Day

presented by

March 1, 2024

Relive the Reading Day Excitement

See highlights from Reading Day 2024, an unforgettable event that included a record number of volunteers, tens of thousands of excited students, VIP guests and fun-filled experiences that support early literacy in our community.

We’re celebrating Reading Day all month long!

Volunteer registration for Reading Day has closed, but there are several ways you can still be part of this incredible impact and support early literacy in our community. And if you’re interested in joining one of the next big volunteer events, click the button below!

Invest in Early Literacy

For North Texas students, reading skills create a foundation for life. That’s because reading supports success in school, college and career readiness and, later, career achievement and even health.

Together, we can spark a love of reading that sets children up for success in school and beyond. Through our Once Upon a Month program, a just $6 a month can provide two children with free books every month for one year.

Volunteer with Us

As we march toward our culminating Centennial celebration in the fall of 2025, we have a number of exciting volunteer opportunities to network and make a direct impact right here in North Texas. Activities will include everything from STEM education and career exposure to early literacy, physical and mental health and food access. Complete our volunteer interest form to receive updates on how to get involved.

Donate Books for Reading Day

Looking for another way to support Reading Day? This year, we’re handing out free books to participating children to inspire early reading. Supporters are invited to purchase books to donate from our Amazon Wish List. Click below to get started.
Honorary Reading Day Chair

Mrs. Laura Bush, Former First Lady of the United States

We are honored to welcome Mrs. Laura Bush, former first lady of the United States, as this year’s Reading Day chair. A former librarian and teacher, Mrs. Bush is a vocal advocate for early reading initiatives. This year, two of our Reading Day book selections are from Mrs. Bush’s 2023 Summer Reading List for Kids.

Thank you to our Founding Centennial Century Circle Members

Did You Know?

Education opens doors, broadens horizons and sets kids up for success. When kids have the skills they need to succeed in school—like reading at grade level—it empowers them to thrive at every stage.
Kids who enter school ready to learn are more likely to read proficiently by 3rd grade.
Students who read on grade level by third grade are 5x more likely to graduate ready for success in college or career.
College graduates can earn $36,000 more a year, enabling them to save for the future.
Financially stable adults can access quality health care for themselves and their families.
young boy with book in his hands, smiling

Creating Opportunity for All North Texans

United Way of Metropolitan Dallas creates, leads and invests in a range of education programs that give kids a strong start, quality out-of-school time and strong pathways through high school to college and career. Together, we can set North Texas children up to achieve now and in the future. Learn more about our education initiatives and opportunities to get involved.