Reading to End Racism (RER) is an inter-generational literacy program designed to engage K-5th grade students with books and personal stories, and spark discussion about eliminating racism, bullying and discrimination.
RER provides training, resources and support for volunteers, teachers and parents to talk with their children about racism and discrimination.
Parent Workshop “How to Talk to Your Kids About Racism”
To complement our Reading to End Racism Reading Days in local elementary schools, YWCA Boulder County offers a parent workshop to give parents the skills and tools they need to answer questions their children might ask about race, racism, discrimination and bullying after RER visits their school, and how they can continue the conversation at home. Topics include:
How do we have meaningful conversations about race and racism?
How do we raise our children to treat others fairly when they see racial injustice?
What are the pros and cons of talking openly about race and racial injustice with our children?
What is the price of silence?
To request a parent training for your group or school, email Heidi at hmallon@ywcaboulder.org
RER News
RER in Action!
Reading to End Racism (RER) is a grassroots organization founded in 1998 by a group of retired local teachers. They saw racism and discrimination in their classrooms and wanted to create a safer, more supportive educational environment for local students. YWCA Boulder County became involved with the program in 2006, originally providing office space and eventually adopting the program in 2013 to help it continue and grow.
Ways to Get Involved
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Volunteer
Attend a Volunteer Training. We have trainings throughout the year on our event calendar.
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Bring RER to You
Interested in a RER Reading Day at your school or community group?
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Sponsor or Host
You or your organization can sponsor or host a Reading to End Racism day or parent training for a school or community group.
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View Our Book List
Download our curated book list: 10th Anniversary of Reading to End Racism at YWCA Boulder County.
RER Volunteer FAQs
We are always looking for new volunteers to join us. Check out our FAQs to learn more about how you can make a difference.
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Volunteers choose a book and read to a classroom, then lead age-appropriate discussions on diversity, inclusion, empathy, kindness, and allyship. Most sessions are with K–5 students, though some schools include PreK or up to 8th grade.
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RER volunteers typically spend 2–3 hours per session, including 30–90 minutes in the classroom plus time for book selection and prep.
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Yes! Once sessions are scheduled, you'll receive a signup and can choose the school, grade, and time that works best for you.
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Yes, all volunteers must complete a training before participating. Trainings are offered bimonthly or by request, and new volunteers can also shadow a session before leading their own.
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Volunteers must pass a background check and be aligned with the YWCA’s mission to eliminate racism, with a willingness to engage in thoughtful conversations on sensitive topics.
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We provide books, activity suggestions, materials, bookmarks, and stickers—everything you need for your reading session. Many titles are also available through the library.