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SOAR United Boosts Literacy in Vicksburg Youth

VICKSBURG, Miss. – Each morning, Bre, a camp mentor at SOAR United/Camp Discovery is greeted by the excited faces of the students she works with. Bre’s students are among those whose reading scores were on the decline in 2023 but attend SOAR United in the hopes of getting their literacy development back on track.
Academic success starts with proficient reading skills. Recognizing this, United Way of West Central Mississippi launched SOAR United to address educational gaps and support youth development. In 2018, third-grade reading scores improved from 517 in the fall to 697 in the spring. However, in 2023, scores slightly declined to 503 in the fall and 681 in the spring. These results highlighted the need for sustained intervention.
Program Structure and Expansion
SOAR United collaborates with the city, county, and Vicksburg-Warren School District. The program focuses on high-dosage tutoring, evidence-based reading interventions, and meaningful academic and social connections with trained academic guides. This initiative aims to accelerate reading achievement, especially for children from low-income families.
The program started with 25 students and rapidly expanded. By the end of its first year, SOAR United served 250 students across four after-school programs. These students experienced an average growth of 10.7 months in reading proficiency, as measured by the STAR reading assessment. The program expanded to 550 students the following year, demonstrating an average increase of 10.5 months, according to the iReady assessment.
Youth Development and Community Support
A critical component of the program’s success is the Vicksburg Warren Youth Development Center. Established to combat youth gun violence, the center serves as a hub for community resources. Youth are referred to the center by various agencies, including the Sheriff’s Office, Police Department, school district, and court system. After an intake interview, participants are matched with appropriate programs and resources.
In partnership with United Way and the Vicksburg-Warren School District, the center also offers Camp Discovery. This summer enrichment camp provides literacy intervention, substance abuse and bullying prevention, social skills development, mentorship, fine arts activities, and field trips. Bre, a camp mentor, shared, “Not only did I help the campers gain confidence in their camp goals, but I was also able to make a difference in young people’s lives.”
Commitment to Community and Education
United Way’s efforts in Vicksburg align with its mission to mobilize communities to action so all can thrive. Programs like SOAR United and Camp Discovery enhance academic achievement and foster a supportive environment for young people. Through strategic partnerships and targeted interventions, United Way creates opportunities for youth to succeed.
To continue supporting initiatives like SOAR United, United Way relies on community involvement and donations. Your support can make a significant difference in the lives of students and their families. Visit United Way of West Central Mississippi to learn more about our programs and how you can make a lasting impact. Together, we can ensure every child has the opportunity to succeed.
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