ESTO gives back to the communities we visit. This year, ESTO registrants will be putting together literacy kits for youngsters in the Grand Rapids community. Did you know 1 in 6 children who were not reading proficiently in third grade did not graduate from high school on time? As these children progress to adulthood, they are more likely to be unemployed or earn below the poverty level. Additionally, the link between low literacy and crime is undisputed. Nearly 85% of delinquent children and 75% of adult prison inmates are functionally illiterate. Reading at grade level by the end of third grade is therefore critical to the success of children and the community. ESTO volunteers will be supporting the important work of the Community Literacy Initiative in cooperation with the Heart of West Michigan United Way.
Join your ESTO colleagues doing something meaningful for the Grand Rapids community all while enjoying the comradery ESTO is known for. Kick of your ESTO 2022 Sunday morning at ESTO Cares, just steps to the Convention Center. Registration opens at 8, program at 8:30.