Elementary school students across the country are struggling to learn basic reading skills, putting their future at significant risk. Third graders who are not proficient in reading are four times more likely to drop out of high school. This issue is not only impacting students, but has long term negative effects on the American workforce. If current literacy trends continue, the U.S. will have a shortfall of 5 million workers with necessary postsecondary education. That’s why today’s leading employers are dedicated to solving this critical issue.

The Early Literacy Project is an initiative focused on building a scalable and accessible solution to the nationwide literacy gap. Founded by Truist and EVERFI, The Early Literacy Project convenes a network of forward-thinking institutions committed to sponsoring this initiative in communities throughout the country. As part of this project, students, parents, and teachers in sponsored communities receive access to cutting-edge digital literacy tools and resources at no cost, thanks to funding from sponsor institutions.

Scalable In-School Digital Education

EVERFI has developed WORD Force - A Literacy Adventure for K-2, a game-based course that teaches students key foundational literacy skills. It includes 15 interactive games that offer opportunities for students to learn and practice skills for beginning reading. EVERFI has 15 years of experience building digital courses that are engaging for students and allow teachers to measure progress and outcomes.

  • Gamified & Adaptive

    Targets students' demonstrated needs to help them along the path to literacy

  • Outcomes-Driven

    Focuses on growing skills that are most associated with reading proficiency

  • Standards Aligned

    Provides the instructional support teachers need to supplement classroom lessons

  • Research-Backed

    Leverages the latest proven practices and methodologies in literacy science

"I am so passionate about this issue, which is the cornerstone of economic opportunity. Every job today requires fundamental reading. We cannot restore hope in America until we know every child has these crucial skills from an early age."

Kelly King, CEO, Truist
Benefits of Joining This Initiative

  • Scalable In-School Education

    Provide critical literacy skills to students in your organization's key communities through EVERFI's digital course

  • On-the-Ground Activation

    EVERFI's nationwide team of former teachers works with schools and districts to activate and scale the program

  • Community & Classroom Engagement

    Showcase your investment in early literacy through employee volunteer opportunities and engagement events

  • Data & Impact Reporting

    Demonstrate your impact through robust data reporting on student progress and program reach

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