Brilliant Detroit curbs summer slide with Detroit Reads!

About This Project

Summary

Detroit Reads! by Brilliant Detroit ignited a city-wide passion for summer learning and literacy for children ages birth to 8 years old. Through strategic partnerships, we delivered books, facilitated engaging community activities, and celebrated the brilliance of our communities at no cost to the families we serve. Youth were inspired by our guest authors as well as volunteer tutors who met with them twice a week. Parents and caregivers were also given tools to work with their children at home.

Goals & Objectives

In Detroit, only 15% of 3rd Graders read at grade level. Detroit Reads tackled this crisis head-on, delivering literacy support directly to neighborhoods. Collaborating with key partners, this program ensured every child avoids “summer slide,” a loss of learning outside of school.

Results & Impact

Detroit Reads, in collaboration with 18 partners, saw impressive outcomes. 92% of kids avoided summer slide meaning they maintained or grew their reading scores. One touching moment included a child's first reading bringing her mother to tears. It's more than a campaign; it's transformational.