Welcome to the Philadelphia Literacy Initiative (PLI), an intergenerational tutoring and mentoring program that supports early education and enhances literacy skills for prekindergarten classrooms and kindergarten through grade three. At PLI, we believe in the power of positive interactions and relationships to foster a lifelong love for learning and improve reading proficiency. Through our program, we provide tailored tutoring and mentoring experiences to help students build strong literacy foundations and reach grade-level reading proficiency. Our dedicated mentors work hand in hand with students, creating a supportive environment that nurtures their self-confidence, encourages engagement, and promotes academic success. We are committed to empowering young learners, bridging generational gaps, and impacting their educational journey.
Join us in creating a brighter future through the transformative power of intergenerational tutoring and mentoring at PLI.
Children in K-3
Mastering reading skills by the end of third grade sets a critical foundation for academic and social-emotional development. As fourth graders transition to reading for learning, those who have achieved this milestone:
- Elevate their academic performance across writing, social studies, science, and math, crucially applying reading to tackle challenges.
- Demonstrate proficiency or excellence in benchmark and state standardized assessments.
- Cultivate lasting confidence and bolster self-esteem as they progress.
Older Adults
Older Adults Care Deeply About Students. We know this because they…
- Enrich learning by ading value, experience, compassion and diverse perspectives to young learners.
- Offer high-quality literacy support fostering academic success and empowering early learners ages 3-5 and elementary students with essential skills that extend far beyond the classroom.
- Unlock the joy of giving back and nurturing young minds by volunteering in prekindergarten classrooms and aiding kindergarten to grade three students to become confident readers.
- Their experience and guidance can make a lasting impact, shaping a brighter future for the next generation.
Our Mission & Vision
VISION
A world in which older adults have the opportunity to contribute to developing a literate nation and every child learns to read.
MISSION
The Philadelphia Literacy Initiative (PLI) is a dynamic intergenerational tutoring and mentoring program dedicated to empowering students in prekindergarten classrooms and kindergarten through grade three with vital literacy skills for success. Our unwavering mission is to deliver exceptional, personalized tutoring, mentoring, and classroom support, nurturing a genuine enthusiasm for learning, cultivating robust literacy foundations, and propelling students towards achieving grade-level reading proficiency.
A Word
Drawing on the timeless wisdom of Dr. Carter G. Woodson’s “The Mis-Education of the Negro,” which champions enriching lives and driving positive change, the Philadelphia Literacy Initiative reimagines community engagement and civic duty. Harnessing the power of intergenerational collaboration, our prekindergarten classroom support and K-3 literacy tutoring and mentoring programs shine as beacons of strength, remediation, and enrichment throughout the school year. We foster connections across generations and create a dynamic learning ecosystem where knowledge and experience flow seamlessly. As a result, young minds thrive, foundational literacy skills flourish, and a tapestry of mutual growth and understanding unfolds, redefining the educational journey for students and older adults alike.
Executive Director – Loraine Carter
PLI is off to another school year.
Tutoring and Mentoring
Pre-Kindergarten Classroom Support
School Support Projects
Boyz’n The Books
Get in touch with us--
Philadelphia Literacy Initiative
c/o Urban Affairs Coalition
1650 Arch Street, Suite 2701
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Telephone: 484-416-0609
Email: info@phillyliteracy.org
Facebook: www.facebook.com/phillyliteracy