The READERS Initiative

Advancing Literacy, Learning, and Generational Empowerment

The “Readers” initiative is the literacy and academic development arm of Roofs, Roots and Readers. Readers was created to address the literacy crisis impacting underserved Philadelphia communities, where too many children struggle to read proficiently and are denied access to the educational opportunities needed for long-term success.

We believe literacy is more than reading words on a page—it is the foundation for confidence, communication, critical thinking, economic mobility, and self-determination. Readers is committed to helping children, families, and community members develop strong literacy skills through culturally relevant instruction, community-centered learning environments, and literacy entrepreneurship pathways.

📚 Early Literacy & Reading Development

Readers focuses on building strong foundational literacy skills beginning in early childhood and continuing through elementary education. 

Our programs emphasize:

• Foundational reading instruction

• Reading comprehension and fluency

• Vocabulary and language development

• Literacy-rich learning environments

• Culturally relevant books and curriculum

• Family literacy engagement

The initiative is rooted in the understanding that early literacy is directly connected to long-term educational achievement, workforce readiness, and life outcomes.

✊🏽 Culturally Relevant Literacy Instruction

Readers prioritizes literacy instruction that reflects the identities, experiences, cultures, and histories of African-American and BIPOC children. Programs are designed to help children see themselves positively represented in what they learn and read.

Instruction incorporates:

• Diaspora literature

• Community storytelling and oral traditions

• Identity-centered learning experiences

• Diverse authors and perspectives

• Culturally responsive teaching practices

We believe children become stronger readers when they feel connected to the content and supported by educators who understand their communities and experiences.

💼 Literacy Entrepreneurship & Workforce Development

Readers also creates pathways for community members to become literacy entrepreneurs, tutors, educators, and educational leaders. 

Through training and internship programs, participants learn:

• Literacy instruction strategies

• Curriculum development

• Tutoring and intervention methods

• Small business and entrepreneurship skills

• Community engagement practices

Participants are supported in launching literacy-based businesses and educational services that strengthen local communities and expand access to high-quality literacy support.

🌿 Community Literacy Spaces

The Readers initiative extends beyond classrooms by creating literacy-rich community environments throughout neighborhoods. 

Vacant lots, community spaces, and shared learning areas may be transformed into:

• Outdoor reading gardens

• Literacy parks and storytelling spaces

• Community libraries and book exchanges

• Family reading events and literacy festivals

• Youth enrichment and tutoring spaces

These spaces help normalize literacy, increase access to books, and create positive learning environments within the community itself.

❤️ Why Readers Matters

Low literacy attainment impacts every area of life, including:

• Educational achievement

• Employment opportunities

• Economic mobility

• Mental health and confidence

• Incarceration rates

• Community stability

Readers exists to interrupt these cycles by providing children and families with the tools, support, and opportunities needed to succeed academically and beyond.

🌍 What Makes Readers Different?

• Culturally relevant literacy instruction

• Community-centered reading environments

• Literacy entrepreneurship pathways

• Family and intergenerational literacy focus

• Integrated education, wellness, and economic development model

• Relationship-based mentorship and learning support

Our Vision

We envision communities where every child can read confidently, every family has access to literacy support, and every neighborhood values education as a pathway to freedom and opportunity. 

Through the Readers Initiative, we are building a culture of literacy, leadership, ownership, and lifelong learning.

Learn More

🌐 www.roofsrootsreaders.com
📧 amjackson@roofsrootsreaders.com