Read Ahead

Read Ahead

Read Ahead is an educational startup with a mission to unlock students' full potential through reading-based mentoring. Founded in 1991, the company has been dedicated to matching volunteer mentors from premier corporate and community partners with students at public elementary schools in New York City. Their unique model leverages corporate resources and talent, providing one-on-one reading-based mentoring sessions that lead to the development of essential social-emotional skills in students.

Partnering with 15 elementary schools in Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Queens, Read Ahead aims to reach over 1,000 students during the 2018-19 school year. Notably, nearly 70% of students in their partner schools are included in the New York City Department of Education’s "Poverty Count," highlighting the company's focus on supporting children from high-need backgrounds.

With a strong track record of success, including a 98% approval rate from partner teachers, Read Ahead has demonstrated its impact on students' confidence, motivation, and academic skills. Their approach not only benefits the students but also provides a rewarding experience for the volunteer mentors.

Currently headquartered in the United States, Read Ahead is poised to continue its impactful work in the education sector, addressing the critical need for mentorship and literacy support among students from underserved communities.