Among the many ways that Atmos Energy is Fueling Safe and Thriving Communities, perhaps none is more important than our commitment to fueling bright minds and healthy futures for our kids – and we are especially focused on providing the resources children need to read at grade level by third grade. United Way of Metropolitan Dallas shares our passion for encouraging early childhood literacy, and on March 1 they hosted United Way Reading Day with Atmos Energy’s full support and participation. 

The research is clear that young children who develop an early interest in reading experience benefits that extend into other areas of learning such as improved vocabulary and cognitive development, and they are better equipped to excel in a wide range of subjects like science, math, and history. Third grade marks the shift from “learning to read” to “reading to learn,” which is a key milestone in a child’s journey because after third grade, deficient readers find themselves at a greater risk of falling behind. 

This year’s United Way Reading Day, which is held every spring, was designed to be the largest one yet. The goal was to recruit 1,000 volunteers who would read to and inspire 20,000 students in 40 schools. In fact, more than 1,200 volunteers read to more than 25,000 students in seven school districts and 42 schools. According to Jennifer Sampson, McDermott-Templeton president and CEO of United Way of Metropolitan Dallas, those volunteers could fill 225 school buses that would stretch for 2 miles end-to-end. Atmos Energy employees were eager to volunteer, of course, with nearly 100 of our team members reading to children in three schools, hoping to spark a love of reading that lasts forever. 

A kickoff event was held at J.N. Ervin Elementary School, where former first lady Laura Bush served as the honorary Reading Day chair. Liz Beauchamp, Atmos Energy vice president of governmental and public affairs, was honored to deliver opening remarks to students in attendance. 

“Fueling bright minds and healthy futures for our young learners is one of our pillars that we feel so strongly about,” said Beauchamp, “because it is a proven indicator of future success both in and outside the classroom. This day is so important to us because we know that when an individual thrives, the entire community benefits from better financial outcomes, a stronger workforce, and even improved overall health. We hope that your future success starts right now with a love for reading and that you carry it with you throughout your lifetime.” 

On United Way Reading Day and every day of the year, Atmos Energy is a proud supporter of United Way and its drive to encourage early literacy. To learn more about Atmos Energy’s passion for fueling bright minds and healthy futures for our kids, please review our Corporate Responsibility and Sustainability Report at atmosenergy.com/sustainability.