Summer Learning Grant

The Summer Learning Grant, provided by the United Way of Berks County, is a competitive funding opportunity available to schools and nonprofit organizations serving students in Berks County, Pennsylvania. The grant aims to support summer learning programs for students in Pre-K through 3rd grade during the summer months of June to August 2025. A maximum of $5,000 may be awarded per applicant, with the United Way reserving the right to provide a lesser amount based on demonstrated need and available resources. The grant is intended to fund summer programming expenses, including but not limited to educational materials, program activities, and other essential costs. To be eligible, applicants must be schools or nonprofit organizations that provide summer learning opportunities for students in Berks County. Programs must include a literacy component but may also incorporate other disciplines, such as STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics). Additionally, each proposed program must have an evaluation component that measures the success of its literacy-based outcomes. Organizations that have previously received the Summer Learning Grant are eligible to reapply. The grant application process will take place through the e-CImpact online system, with applications accepted from Monday, January 13, 2025, until Sunday, February 16, 2025, at 11:59 p.m. Applications must include program details, expected outcomes, demographic data, projected budgets, and the names of professional staff involved. If a school is applying, district administration approval is required. If technology is involved, approval from the IT Manager is also necessary. Organizations partnering with schools must demonstrate that their proposal has district approval. Successful grant recipients will be notified by Friday, March 28, 2025. Funds will be distributed in April 2025 and must be used by August 2025. United Way staff and volunteers will conduct a site visit before the end of July 2025 to observe the funded programs in action. Grantees must submit a final report through e-CImpact no later than September 26, 2025. The final report must include data on program outcomes, detailed expense reports, and at least two photographs of student activities. These materials may be used by the United Way of Berks County for promotional purposes, provided that proper media releases are on file. A volunteer review committee, composed of members from Ready.Set.READ! and United Way boards and committees, will evaluate applications based on a predetermined rubric. This process ensures that grants are awarded competitively and fairly to programs that align with the grant’s objectives. The purchasing of materials and contracted fees is the responsibility of grantees, who must provide a final budget as part of their reporting requirements. For technical assistance with the e-CImpact system, applicants can contact Amanda Hansen at 610-685-4582 or via email at amandah@uwberks.org. For any other grant-related questions, applicants may reach out to Ashley Chambers at 610-685-4586 or ashleyc@uwberks.org.