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United Way
Reading Day

Join us on March 7 for United Way Reading Day presented by Atmos Energy, as we inspire thousands of North Texas children with a love of reading!

March 6, 2026

This beloved annual tradition creates unforgettable memories for students and volunteers alike. The event is a unique opportunity to inspire thousands of children right here in our community with a love of reading, which supports early literacy and a lifetime of success.

During this exciting and impactful day, volunteers will read to thousands of elementary students in classrooms across North Texas and participate in our online book drives to help build each child’s personal library.

two boys reading books

We’re Kicking Off Our Next
100 Years of Impact

At United Way of Metropolitan Dallas, we’re launching into our second century of changing lives in North Texas. Fittingly, this year’s Reading Day is inspired by the future and its endless possibilities. We’ll share fun and engaging books with future-focused themes and storylines, all while advancing our Aspire United 2030 goals, which include improving early literacy.  

Ways to Get Involved

Volunteer for Reading Day

Volunteer for Reading Day on March 6, and share your love of reading to support early literacy in our community. Visit our volunteer page to sign up for an in-person or virtual volunteer opportunity.

two women volunteers pack books in boxes

Donate Books for Reading Day

Kids who read at home are better prepared for success in the classroom. Donate a book (or several!) from our Amazon Wish List, and we’ll distribute them to local students on Reading Day to inspire early reading. Click below to get started.

Become a Sponsor

Reading Day is a one-of-a-kind opportunity to work with our corporate partners to advance early literacy across North Texas. For information on sponsorship opportunities, contact Carshundra Wattts, Senior Director of Volunteer Engagement at: cwatts@unitedwaydallas.org.

Please note: Sponsorship opportunities are limited.

Build and Donate a Special Reading Day Bookmark

Show kids that reading is fun by creating your own customized bookmark, which we’ll give to a lucky student. Simply choose your favorite design below, then make it your own with a custom message about why you love to read. 

Did You Know?

Reading Day isn’t just about having fun—it also supports a strong educational foundation. When kids have the skills they need to succeed in school—like reading at grade level—it empowers them to thrive at every stage. 

Kids who enter school ready to learn are more likely to read proficiently by 3rd grade.
Students who read on grade level by third grade are 5x more likely to graduate ready for success in college or career.
College graduates can earn $36,000 more a year, enabling them to save for the future.
Financially stable adults can access quality health care for themselves and their families.

Invest in Local Children

Together, we’re strengthening education, income and health—the building blocks of opportunity—and setting North Texas students up for successful futures. Join us by investing in lasting change today.

Through our Once Upon a Month program, a $36 gift can provide a local child with one book a month for a whole year.

young boy with book in his hands, smiling

Creating Opportunity for All North Texans

United Way of Metropolitan Dallas creates, leads and invests in education programs that give kids a strong start, quality out-of-school time and strong pathways through high school to college and career. Together, we can set North Texas children up to achieve now and in the future. Learn more about our education initiatives and opportunities to get involved.