In Romania, more and more children are struggling with letters, with understanding texts, with the fear of asking questions. Almost half of vulnerable pupils risk remaining prisoners of functional illiteracy - an invisible wall that cuts off their chances at education, at high school, at a decent life.

But this is where the beautiful part begins: the story can be rewritten. And you can be part of it.

 Reading Adventure – where children discover that they are able to succeed

United Way Romania's "Reading Adventure" program transforms vulnerable schools into places where children discover - perhaps for the first time - that the world is bigger than their village, that every story they read opens a door, that every page is a victory.

Here, children:

• learn to read with understanding, not just mechanically;
• discover the joy of stories in friendly reading clubs;
• go on themed trips where books turn into adventures;
• work with specially trained teachers;
• receive a hot meal, so that learning doesn’t become a burden;
• find warmth, encouragement, and a space where they are seen.

And parents are supported to continue at home what the children begin at school.

What we’ve already achieved

Since 2021, when we launched the program, thousands of children have made real progress:

• they read better;
• they understand their emotions more clearly;
• they communicate more easily;
• they have more confidence in themselves;
• they go to school with joy.

And most importantly: they are beginning to discover that they are able to succeed.

And now, at the Raiffeisen Bank Bucharest Marathon, the story continues. With you.

When you pin your race number to your chest, you might be motivated by a time, a challenge, a personal goal.

But imagine that with every kilometer you run, somewhere, a child learns a new word. Imagine that your effort becomes hope. And when you cross the finish line, a child crosses an invisible line toward a better future.

All you have to do is:

When registering, select United Way Romania in the ‘Supported Cause’ section.

Your time turns into time gained for a child. Your effort becomes their opportunity. Your passion becomes their chance at education.

United Way Romania

United Way has been working for years in vulnerable communities, alongside teachers and parents, with the support of donors and companies, so that no child is left behind. We believe in a world where every student has the right to real opportunities.

And you can help us reach the next children, one more school, one more community.

We run together. We change destinies together.

If you have any questions or want to learn more, you can write to us at: ioana.pelcaru@unitedway.ro

Run for United Way.

Run for the story a child will read thanks to you.