Literacy in Community (LINC)

???? At LINC, we stand in unwavering support of our partners at City's First Readers as they reaffirm their commitment to every child, every family, and every community. Literacy is more than just reading—it’s about belonging, trust, and opportunity. Together, we are building a future where all children can learn, grow, and thrive. We are together, always. ??? Read the full blog post announcement here: https://lnkd.in/ejP2hJFY

We’re thrilled to announce that LINC is an Official Charity Partner of the 2025 TCS New York City Marathon! ???? ????? For the third consecutive year, LINC is proud to partner with the marathon to support early literacy in New York City’s communities. Our programs span all five boroughs, just like the marathon itself. ????♀??? By joining Team LINC, you'll not only gain entry to the 2025 TCS NYC Marathon but also help fund essential reading programs and book distributions. As a Team LINC runner, you’ll enjoy: ? Guaranteed entry to the 2025 NYC Marathon ? A personalized fundraising page ? Support from LINC’s dedicated team ? Official Team LINC gear ? And the chance to make a real difference! Ready to run for early literacy? Learn more and sign up today: https://lnkd.in/ewi3GrQR

Advocating for Early Literacy in Albany: A Critical Step Toward Change ??♀?????? Last week, the LINC team took action in Albany, advocating for a crucial change in the state budget: the inclusion of early childhood literacy funding. While millions are allocated to adult literacy, there is ?zero? dedicated to the foundational literacy programs that are vital for our youngest learners. Our team spent the day meeting with legislators, walking over 18,000 steps, and raising our voices to make a clear point: ??? early literacy should be prioritized from birth, not just when children enter school. ?????? The first few years of life are crucial for brain development ??, and we know that literacy programs—starting in the home and supported by communities—set children on the path to success. This advocacy is the first step in a long journey to change the way we think about and fund early childhood literacy. The impact will be felt across New York, as we work toward ensuring every child is ready to learn by kindergarten. Read the full blog post here: https://lnkd.in/eqb6hf6n

?? Be a Hero for Young Readers! Every child dreams of heroes—but real heroes make a difference. By sponsoring LINC’s Spring Gala on May 19th at Gotham Hall, you bring early literacy programs to communities that need them most. Strong reading skills open doors to success. Your support fuels young imaginations, builds bright futures, and creates the next generation of heroes. ?????? ????? Can’t sponsor? Join us! Grab your ticket or make a donation—every contribution helps kids start kindergarten ready to read: https://lnkd.in/ekrup9vq

We believe that incorporating fun into learning enhances engagement and fosters a deeper love for education! Thank you NYC Reads Initiative for being an amazing partner! ?? ??

The LINC team had an incredible time at the ????54th Annual NABE (National Association for Bilingual Education) Conference in Atlanta! From engaging discussions to insightful sessions, our staff walked away with valuable strategies to support multilingual learners. ?? Key takeaways: ?? Practical strategies to help children use one language to support their development ?? Play-based approaches to boost early literacy in multilingual kids ?? The importance of bilingual education in shaping the future Their work was met with enthusiasm, and gained valuable insights from the sessions they attended. They're excited to have brought these learnings back to LINC and continue empowering young readers! ??

I loved this quote featured on EdWeek’s website this week. And in our work here at Literacy in Community (LINC) I think this extends to parents too. When parents have people who believe in their ability to help their children they rise to the occasion every single time.

As a proud LINC, Literacy In Community, Board member, I am looking forward to celebrating LINC and its important work on May 19th. Please join me!

??? This past weekend, LINC took center stage at the 54th Annual NYSABPRHAL New York State Association of Black Puerto Rican Hispanic and Asian Legislators Inc.) Weekend, championing early literacy for communities of color! Our Chief Program Officer, Laura Walsh, joined an inspiring panel, "Literacy Without Limits," to share bold, data-driven solutions for ensuring every child enters school eager and ready to read. A special thank you to our amazing sponsors, Assemblymember George Alvarez, Assemblymember Manny De Los Santos, and Assemblymember Yudelka Tapia, for your commitment to education, and to our incredible moderator and champion, Victor Pichardo, Jr. Together, we’re building a future where literacy knows no limits! ???? https://lnkd.in/ezv76YHs

?? Save the Date! Join us for an unforgettable evening at LINC’s ??Spring Gala?? on Monday, May 19th. Together, we’ll celebrate the incredible achievements of our children, parents, and honorees while supporting our mission to empower families and build literacy-rich communities. ???? ?? Monday, May 19th | 6 pm ?? Gotham Hall | 1356 Broadway Mark your calendars and stay tuned for more details! Let’s make a difference—one book, one family, one community at a time. ???? Learn more here: https://lnkd.in/ekrup9vq