Power Lunch
Power Lunch was a key initiative, allowing businesses to make a lasting impact.
About the Initiative
The Strategy
In partnership with Mile High United Way, Denver Public Schools, and the Office of Family and Community Engagement, businesses adopted second or third-grade classrooms and read with students weekly for 45 minutes. This consistent interaction boosted literacy skills and built meaningful relationships with caring adults.
Key Features
- Weekly Sessions: Teams visited schools once a week for 45-minute reading sessions.
- Ongoing Pairings: Volunteers worked with the same student throughout the year, fostering strong connections.
- Training Provided: All necessary training was offered, and a DPS background check was required.
Key Features
In partnership with Mile High United Way, Denver Public Schools, and the Office of Family and Community Engagement, businesses adopted second or third-grade classrooms and read with students weekly for 45 minutes.
- Weekly Sessions: Teams visited schools once a week for 45-minute reading sessions.
- Ongoing Pairings: Volunteers worked with the same student throughout the year, fostering strong connections.
- Training Provided: All necessary training was offered, and a DPS background check was required.
The initiative successfully transformed students’ lives while boosting volunteer satisfaction and community involvement.
Impact and Results
Power Lunch aimed to ensure students read at grade level by third grade, enhancing their confidence and academic success. The program combined literacy instruction with mentorship, improving engagement, attendance, and reading scores.
100% of teachers
saw improvements in fluency, vocabulary, and student confidence.
100% of teachers
noted that Power Lunch provided positive role models and emphasized the value of reading.
91% of volunteers
enjoyed a more fulfilling workday.