From The Reading Harwood Initiative
In the fall of 2024, the United Way of Berks County, in partnership with the Penn State College of Medicine’s REACH program, launched a door-to-door survey in Northeast Reading with a powerful goal: to listen to families and better understand what young children and caregivers need to thrive. With the help of nearly 30 volunteers, the Harwood Early Childhood Education (ECE) team reached over 1,300 households — collecting 133 completed surveys in English and Spanish.
This community listening effort grew out of United Way’s long-standing commitment to early childhood education and its involvement in a broader civic engagement initiative in partnership with the Harwood Institute for Public Innovation. United Way, along with other local partners, participated in Harwood’s Public Innovators Lab — part of a national approach focused on “Turning Outward” to understand and act on community aspirations. As a result, United Way took a leadership role in the Early Childhood Education working group, one of three teams formed to address key community challenges.
The findings were clear: families want safe neighborhoods, more accessible childcare, and meaningful activities for children ages 0 to 5. While many caregivers prioritize healthy food and early learning opportunities, they also face barriers — such as cost, inconvenient program hours, transportation, and a lack of awareness about existing resources.
Spanish-speaking families, who made up the majority of respondents, voiced unique challenges and aspirations. Parents expressed a desire for music and arts programs for toddlers, more outdoor and park-based activities, and community events that bring neighbors together.
Expanding outreach efforts and investing in culturally and linguistically responsive programming that reflects the diversity of the Reading community can better support all families. Addressing these needs will help ensure that every child, regardless of background, has access to meaningful early childhood education experiences that support long-term well-being and success.
This survey sparked more than just conversation—it inspired action. Since then, the Northeast Branch of the Reading Public Library has expanded programming, including bilingual story times and toddler-friendly activities. United Way and its partners, including BCIU, Easterseals of Eastern PA, and Early Learning Resource Center, continue actively engaging with families at the library, offering early learning resources and support in both English and Spanish.
The work continues, but one thing is certain: by listening closely and turning outward, real progress is being made. As one caregiver shared during the community conversations, “We want to feel connected — and know our kids are safe, learning, and happy.”
This shines light on the renewed investment in the families of Northeast Reading — and a strong reminder that when we listen to our community, we all grow stronger together.
Read the Full Report
To dive deeper into the findings and recommendations from the Early Childhood Education survey in Northeast Reading, view the full report here:
To learn more about the Harwood Initiative in Reading, contact Laura Cordero at lcordero@centrohispano.org.
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Source: bctv