A dynamic intergenerational tutoring and mentoring program.
Pre-K through third grade.
Philadelphia Literacy Initiative serves the School District of Philadelphia's pre-school classrooms and partner early learning centers throughout the city, and its kindergarten through grade three students striving for reading proficiency at grade level. We also partner with Philadelphia's charter schools. Our team comprises dozens of dedicated older adult volunteers, staff, and a Board of Advisors. The Urban Affairs Coalition is PLI's partner and fiscal sponsor.
Vision. A world in which older adults have the opportunity to contribute to developing a literate nation and every child learns to read.
Mission. PLI is a dynamic intergenerational tutoring and mentoring program dedicated to empowering students in pre-K and K-3 with vital literacy skills — nurturing a genuine enthusiasm for learning and propelling students toward grade-level reading proficiency.
Drawing on the wisdom of Dr. Carter G. Woodson.
Drawing on the timeless wisdom of Dr. Carter G. Woodson, 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 pre-kindergarten 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 — redefining the educational journey for students and older adults alike.
Our team.
Staff
Team Leads
Guidance & governance.
Linda J. Heller, Esq.
Special Education Advocate
Keanne Henry
Sr. VP, Enterprise Strategy Group, AARP
Wagner Marseille, Ed.D.
Center for Strategies, Leadership and Organizational Coherence
Jennifer Matthews, MBA
Sales Director, Procter & Gamble