Reach Out and Read Minnesota is thrilled to share that AbleNet Inc has made a generous donation of $13,600 to support our early learning program at Community University Healthcare Center (CUHCC) in Minneapolis.
This gift will ensure that our partners at CUHCC have the books, staff support, and early learning resources they need to make our program as impactful as possible for the young children and families that CUHCC sees.
Reach Out and Read is an evidence-based pediatric intervention in which young children's healthcare providers give out books and provide early developmental guidance for families during routine well-child visits for children ages 0 to 5 years. CUHCC was one of the first clinics to begin implementing the program in Minnesota, beginning in 1997.
"One of the most rewarding experiences includes giving books to children who have never had one before," said CUHCC Clinic Manager, Veronica Schmitz. "Additionally, seeing the excitement in the parents when their child receives a book in their own language shows how meaningful this program is for our patients."
CUHCC completes over 1,300 well-child visits for children ages 0 to 5 years annually, and serves a highly diverse population. Thanks to donations like this, CUHCC is able to provide high-quality books in the preferred languages of the families they serve, including books in Spanish, Somali, as well as additional early learning materials, such as bookmarks with reading tips.
AbleNet, a Roseville-based company which creates and provides assistive technology products and solutions for individuals with disabilities, was enthusiastic about supporting the program at a local clinic.
"AbleNet's core mission is to help individuals with disabilities reach their full potential. Equity is one of our guiding principles and we believe in equal access to services and support for all individuals," shared the AbleNet Donations Board. "Reach Out and Read Minnesota aligns with our mission and core values, and we are proud to support this organization and become a clinic sponsor. The outcome of their work reduces barriers, allowing families to engage in important conversations and obtain free literary resources to encourage continued positive development"
Reach Out and Read Minnesota would like to extend our sincerest thanks to AbleNet for this generous gift, which will enable countless moments of joy and learning for our young children and families being served at CUHCC.
