Volunteers needed in Cloverdale, Greencastle for United Way of Central Indiana’s ReadUP program

Wednesday, August 26, 2026 at 10:14 AM

By Staff report

United Way of Central Indiana is looking for volunteers in Cloverdale and Greencastle for its signature ReadUP program, a literacy initiative that sends volunteers into elementary schools across the region to read with third graders to help them get on track with grade-level literacy.

Registration is open for those interested in volunteering, and the program will run from September through May.

In Putnam County, United Way is looking for 30 volunteers to read with students at two schools: Cloverdale Elementary School and Tzouanakis Intermediate School.

United Way is celebrating the 20th year of ReadUP this year, having launched in Indianapolis in 2007. This is the fifth year United Way has partnered in Putnam County for ReadUP.

ReadUP focuses on the third grade, a critical time when students shift from learning to read to reading to learn.

Across the region last year, 308 ReadUP volunteers worked with 266 students at 23 schools in seven Central Indiana counties.

Last year, 80% of students who participated in ReadUP demonstrated measurable growth in their literacy skills, according to reported data.

"Every student deserves the opportunity to build a bright and successful future, and strong literacy skills are an important part of that foundation,” said Kierra Hall, United Way’s senior manager of literacy initiatives. “ReadUP helps students strengthen the reading skills they need to stay on track in school, open doors to future opportunities, and reach their full potential.”

Volunteers spend one hour a week reading with two students throughout the school year. Some volunteers choose to join the program with a partner, splitting the time commitment.

Volunteers must complete a background check and a self-paced online training course. No teaching experience is required.

Registration closes at a school when all spots are filled or on Jan. 31, 2027, whichever comes first.

To learn more or sign up, visit uwci.org/readup.