What Is It?

Reading Buddies, a program that supports the literacy growth of YMCA students, is a collaboration between

  • The University of Texas at Austin and YMCA of Central Texas AND
  • Vanderbilt University and YMCA of Middle Tennessee.

Watch this video to learn more.

Who Is Eligible?

This program is open to all first- through fifth-grade students in the YMCA afterschool program at select sites (see below) in the 2024–2025 school year. Sign up begins in August.

What Happens During Reading Buddies?

YMCA sites host Reading Buddies with either cross-age or adult tutors. All students who sign up participate in Reading Buddies—either with a peer or an adult tutor. Lessons take place three times per week for 20 minutes each.

Eligible YMCA School Sites

TexasTennessee
Chandler Oaks ElementaryAndrew Jackson Elementary
Teravista ElementaryWaverly-Belmont Elementary
Caldwell Heights ElementaryNashville Classical
Great Oaks Elementary SchoolHarpeth Valley Elementary
Cactus Ranch ElementaryCane Ridge Elementary
Old Town ElementaryRosebank Elementary
Naumann ElementaryNorman Binkley Elementary
Pond Springs ElementaryUna Elementary
Camacho ElementaryDodson Elementary
Block House Creek ElementarySmith Springs Elementary
Mason Elementary
Gattis Elementary School
Brushy Creek Elementary

Questions?

For more information, visit our project webpage.