Read Better Be Better is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in Phoenix, Arizona, founded in 2014 as a response to the state’s literacy crisis. Our mission is to equip youth with the skills to read and lead. This begins by addressing the challenge that many 3rd graders in Arizona face, with a significant portion reading below grade level. This gap in reading proficiency often hinders their ability to transition from “learning to read” to “reading to learn” by 4th grade, impacting their academic progress and future opportunities. We believe that literacy is foundational to success in education and life, making our work vital in ensuring that every child has the opportunity to excel.

Initially starting as an afterschool reading comprehension and leadership program pairing 3rd grade readers with middle school leaders, we have expanded our reach. Today, we serve students from kindergarten through 12th grade with our continuum of programs, called the “Changemaker Continuum.” We have added two more programs over the years to further the high school students’ leadership skills: the Pathways to Education Professions Program, providing high schoolers with experience in education professions by engaging with students in a classroom setting in one of our K-8 after-school literacy programs, and the Pathways to Civic Leadership Program, guiding high school students through a curriculum focused on leadership development and community engagement. Our programs not only improve reading skills but also inspire students to become leaders and changemakers in their communities, addressing broader social issues and creating a brighter future for all.

Our unique peer-led reading model not only improves reading fluency and comprehension, but also confidence and leadership skills. Readers become Leaders. Leaders become Changemakers.