I know I haven't been around here much lately, but I also know that there are some pretty awesome people here, so I hope you all don't mind me asking for your help (and thanks to Mud for giving me permission!)...  

As many of you know, I run a program at UF called the University of Florida Literacy Initiative (UFLI...pronounced "you fly").  This program has many elements, but one of our most important annual projects is a summer reading program for kids with dyslexia and other significant reading difficulties.  This program is offered in conjunction with PK Yonge Developmental Research School.  The program offers struggling readers an opportunity for intensive intervention, and they typically make huge gains.  It also offers an opportunity for UF students who are preparing to be elementary or special education teachers to become far more skilled in providing effective reading instruction and intervention.  

So, here's where I need your help.  The kids who are not already PK Yonge students must pay a fee of $400 to attend so that we can have sufficient staff to supervise (PK Yonge kids come with state funding).  We have a few scholarships available for kids whose parents can't afford to pay, but we have more families in need than we anticipated.  To qualify for the scholarship, the student must qualify for the federal free or reduced-price lunch program at their home school, so the need is completely legitimate.  We just have a lot this year who qualify.  I've screened most of these children myself, and they have such significant reading problems that I hate the thought of not being able to include them.  

I'm hoping that some VSers might be willing to support full or partial scholarships for children who could really benefit from the UFLI summer program.  A full scholarship is $400, but smaller amounds add up and any amount would help!  Donations are to the UF Foundation and are tax deductible.  Donations will support the cost of staffing the program, as well as the costs of materials and activities.  If you are willing and able to donate, just click HERE to get to the online donation form.  If you'd prefer to send a check, e-mail me at UFLI@coe.ufl.edu for details.

Thanks so much for considering this! 

To learn more about UFLI, visit our website.  If you haven't already, you can also "like" UFLI on Facebook here.