ABOUT US
REACH is a nonprofit that provides literacy instruction and experiences for adult and youth readers each year through ground-breaking tutoring programs and the innovative use of donated books in our beautiful secondhand bookstore.
Our literacy program transforms adults reading and writing skills through experienced volunteer tutors who deliver innovative instruction, are passionate about education, and serve as positive role models. Adult learners feel supported in a safe learning environment for practice, exploration, and language lessons. Our BEE a Reader program pairs a volunteer with emerging readers via zoom. These consistent, positive interactions aim to provide students with a dependable role model who works to strengthen their confidence with regard to reading.
Through our REACH a Teacher Grants, we provide readers of all ages with engaging, appropriate, and high-quality books. Each year we provide thousands of books to schools and nonprofits across the Sioux Empire.
Funding for our work comes in large part from the sale of donated books at our fantastic REACH a Reader bookstore, as well as online and at special events.
OUR HISTORY
Our organization has come a long way since we started 34 years ago as a prison ministry called Sioux Falls Area Literacy Council. While our primary mission to teach adults to read, write, and improve life skills has changed not changed, the scope of our program has changed significantly. In 2014 we changed our name to REACH to reflect that change. We are reaching an even broader community across the Sioux Empire and helping others reach their goals and dreams.
OUR BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Linda Jass
President
BryAnn Becker Knecht
Vice President
Lezlee Herdina
Treasurer
Morgan Hauck
Secretary
John Heber
Valerie Loudenback
Darcy Litzen
Megan Baldridge
Rachel Preheim
Robert Junker
"Literacy is a bridge from misery to hope."