Every weekday at 24 schools in Vermont, Everybody Wins! reading mentors meet over lunch with elementary-school children to share books, conversation, and laughter.

In Vermont, 7% of adults are illiterate at a time when more advanced literacy is necessary to do well in life. Says Dr. Marjorie Lipson from UVM, "Most students in Vermont can accomplish basic tasks requiring literacy, but only a minority will be poised for real success in education or the workplace." (August 2014, Burlington Free Press) At eighth grade, 84% of Vermont students test "basic" on reading tests, and only 45% of them test "proficient."

Children who like to read, read more. Children who read more, read better. Children who read well achieve more academically, enjoy school more, and stay in school. Similarly, children who have mentors do better in school, stay in school, have better self esteem and better relationships at home, and avoid risky behaviors.

When children enjoy reading and feel connected to caring adults, their chances of a good life increase. Schools teach children to read; Everybody Wins! Vermont mentors help children love to read.

Every August, a team of supporters joins the Catamount Trail Association's Race To The Top Of Vermont (RTTTOVT). We run, hike, or mountain bike up the toll road to the summit of Mount Mansfield and collect pledges to support those 600+ reading pairs around the state. Won't you help us keep them reading?

The Mount Mansfield toll road gains 2564 feet of elevation in 4.3 miles. It's not an easy climb, whether you're going for a personal best or hiking to reach the summit. The team from Everybody Wins! climbs to challenge ourselves, and to help Everybody Wins! Vermont meet our mission: that every Vermont child who wants a reading mentor, has one.