WGI Relaunches National “You Can Read” Program

After a multi-year pause starting with the COVID-19 pandemic, the Wilson Global Initiative (WGI) is proud to see the national relaunch of our You Can Read program. The program, which connects volunteers with students to foster literacy skills, resumed in November in Baton Rouge and today in New York City.

Prior to the pandemic You Can Read operated successfully across the country, earning praise for its engaging approach: mobilizing passionate volunteers into schools, pairing them with students, and creating an environment where children not only learned to read but formed meaningful connections with mentors. The program’s success was rooted in the enthusiasm of volunteers and the students’ openness to new experiences.

The program was suspended as WGI focused on its digital strategy, including the development of the Lyra app. Now WGI is thrilled to return to in-person programming, which has been central to our mission since the organization’s founding.

WGI extends its gratitude to partners including BNY, Marriott International, and Scholastic for their support in making the relaunch possible.

“We’re excited to see You Can Read live again and look forward to the impact it will have on students and volunteers alike,” said WGI Founder Chance Wilson. “Together, we’re shaping a future where literacy truly transforms lives.”

Stay tuned as You Can Read continues to grow, empowering young readers in Baton Rouge, New York, and beyond.