CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (Chambana Today) — The Spring 2026 iRead and iCount programs are now accepting applications for volunteers.

Those looking to make a difference in the community have the opportunity to volunteer to shape the futures of children’s’ lives.

Reading and math are two of the most basic workforce skills, and workforce development is an economic development tool and an anti-poverty, anti-violence strategy for the community. Literacy and math skills are deficient for a significant percentage of young children in the area. Studies prove these students will have a hard time catching up and may continue to fall behind.

With additional support, these students will be more likely to succeed in learning so they can find good jobs to make sustainable wages and are more likely to be productive contributors to the local economy.

Just one hour a week for ten weeks can require hundreds of volunteers, so the program is opening applications early, with the deadline set for January 30, 2026.

Approved volunteers can sign up online for school, day, and time preferences for a program that will last one hour a week for ten weeks, for ten hours total in a rewarding experience that positively impacts a child’s future.

For more information or to register, visit Champaign County’s iRead iCount page.