About Us

About SMART:

Learning to read is one of the most important steps in a child's life, laying the vital foundation for future knowledge and education.  Prevailing research proves that shared book reading and the availability of books in the home during the child's first, formative years are the strongest predictors of early literacy skills.  SMART provides both.

Founded in 1992, SMART's proven model engages community volunteers across Oregon to read one-on-one with Pre-K throug hthird-grade children fo one hour per week during the school year.  SMART volunteers model reading aloud and ignite a love of reading in children, helping build literacy skills and self-confidence.  SMART students also receive at least 14 new books to keep and build their personal library each year.