FQHC PARTNERSHIPs
We believe that every child should have access to Reach Out and Read as part of their primary care. As we work to expand our programming across the region, we prioritize bringing on clinics that serve historically marginalized communities -- particularly Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs).
If you are a FQHC-based clinic interested in joining Reach Out and Read, we are here to help! Some of the questions on our National Center’s application do not apply to FQHCs. Our team can help you navigate the application. Contact us!
program benefits
for clinics
- When delivered with fidelity, Reach Out and Read improves provider satisfaction and enhances patient-provider relationships. Practitioners routinely report that giving a child a book is the highlight of their day.
- Parents in participating practices are more likely to rate their pediatrician as helpful.
- Staff at successful sites express heightened commitments to their community and show higher levels of teamwork.
- Participation reduces practitioner stress and burnout.
FOR pediatric practitioners
- It’s FUN! Giving a child a beautiful new book is a great way to start a visit.
- The book is a valuable tool for developmental assessment.
- Books engage and calm anxious children.
- Clinicians appreciate being able to offer caregivers meaningful, positive literacy promotion messages.
- Delivering the program creates opportunities for positive caregiver/child interactions and builds stronger provider connections with the family.
- Books help spark conversations about important topics like sleep routines, nutrition, and school readiness.
how we support programs
- Development support: ROR fundraises on behalf of it its clinics and provides FQHCs with 100% of the funding they need to run the program.
- Training: We offer on-line, program specific training for providers and support staff, as well as access to a library full of free training resources (most of which offer CMEs).
- Dedicated program specialist: Your clinic will be assigned a dedicated member of the ROR program team to help with program setup, book selection and ordering, reporting, and troubleshooting any issues that arise.
resources
applying
running the program
- Introducing Reach Out and Read (a Powerpoint that will help your team understand what the program is all about).
- Sample application (a PDF version of the online application which allows you to see what you will need to know to complete it.)
- Creating A Literacy Rich Clinic Environment (includes posters, hand outs and slide decks for your waiting room).
- Anticipatory Guidance (exam room tips and suggestions for promoting early literacy and relational health.)
Reach Out and Read is 501(c)3 nonprofit that gives young children a foundation for success by incorporating books into pediatric care and encouraging families to read aloud together.
To Support Our Programs:
Alex Chu, Executive Director
Reach Out and Read, Northeast
89 South Street, Suite 201
Boston, MA 02111
617.455.0600
Contact Our FQHC Team:
Samantha Cortes, Northeast FQHC Onboarding Specialist
Leah Karn, Northeast FQHC Support Specialist
reachoutandread.org