Reading for Readiness: Partnering with United to Learn

Community engagement is a fundamental part of Tolleson’s company culture. Whether it’s volunteering together for a community project or contributing skills to positively impact an organization, the Tolleson team comes together to give back in meaningful ways.  

This year, Tolleson is proud to support nonprofit organization United to Learn as one of its Community Partners. 

By third grade, reading on grade level is a key indicator for future success, however, only 47% of third grade students in Dallas ISD are reading on grade level.¹ How to solve this problem? Research suggests that having at least 80 books in a home library increases literacy achievement for students.²

The mission of United to Learn is to activate community investment to ensure educators and students thrive. It mobilizes community partnerships to close opportunity gaps across Dallas ISD public elementary schools. By bringing resources and community support into schools, its team helps to ensure that every child is set up for long-term success.  

United to Learn distributes 50,000+ books annually through Book Drives and Book Bashes at Dallas ISD elementary schools to help students build home libraries and foster a love of learning. At Book Bash, volunteers transform classroom spaces into a wonderful, themed environment like jungle adventures or winter wonderlands – making the book selection process into a truly magical moment.  

The Tolleson team is currently hosting a book drive to support Book Bash efforts, where employees donate books to support United to Learn’s book distribution efforts.   

“We are grateful for Tolleson’s commitment to our students,” says United to Learn CEO Tim Hise. “Through their book drive and Book Bash volunteer day at Lipscomb Elementary, every child will take home a new book, an investment in both literacy and joy. Partnerships like these bring consistent support and encouragement to schools while giving employees a meaningful way to see their impact on Dallas classrooms and our future workforce.” 

Service will always remain a driving force at Tolleson. Our partnership with United to Learn is an exciting opportunity to put our values into action and we are honored to help advance its mission.