Featured Charity: Reading Is Fundamental (RIF)

Most children in poverty in the U.S. don’t own a single book. Since 1966, RIF has provided 400 million free, new books to more than 35 million children.

What our organization does:

Most children in poverty in the U.S. don’t own a single book. Reading Is Fundamental (RIF) provides free books and resources to help them in school and life. Since our founding in 1966, RIF has provided 400 million free, new books to more than 35 million children.

RIF differs in its size and scope. It is the largest children’s literacy nonprofit in the United States and has programs in all 50 states, the District of Colombia, and each U.S. territory. RIF works with parents, teachers and a vast network of volunteers to get free books and resources to children in need. The books RIF provides children empower them not only in school but also in life, allowing them to dream big.

What we wish more people knew:

Experts estimate that nearly 40 percent of U.S. 4th graders do not achieve basic levels of reading proficiency and in many low-income neighborhoods in the U.S. there is only one book for every 300 children. RIF confronts these statistics by bringing reading motivation to all children, especially those in disadvantaged households. RIF achieves this goal by putting new books into the hands of children along with fun literacy activities. Children select the books according to their interests. They feel empowered and renewed, and they begin to see new possibilities.

Why we are successful:

Despite losing more than $24 million in federal funding last year, RIF has persevered and continues to work toward its mission of providing free books to underserved children. Its success can be attributed to the dedication and passion of the staff, program directors and thousands of volunteers. The children we’re serving are facing obstacles much more demanding than ours and we are committed to ensuring each child has a book to call their own.

Want to learn more about Reading Is Fundamental?

Web Site: www.rif.org
Phone: 202-536-3400 or 1-877-RIF-READ
Mailing Address: P.O. Box 33728 Washington, DC 20033
CFC#: #10948
E-mail: contactus@rif.org