United Way Foundation – Romania

The Reading Adventure project delivers structured reading sessions, professional training for teachers, and awareness activities for parents in Călărași County. This initiative enables vulnerable children to develop meaningful reading skills, ensures teachers are equipped to support literacy long-term, and creates a sustainable environment that fosters a love of reading and equal educational opportunities.

Literacy for Vulnerable Children

In Romania, recent reports show that nearly half of pupils are functionally illiterate and an even higher proportion in disadvantaged communities so the need for targeted literacy support is a must.  United Way Romania responds to this challenge through Reading Adventure, a project designed to support vulnerable children in rural Călărași County who face socio‑economic difficulties and are at significant risk of school abandonment.  By integrating teachers, parents, volunteers, and local partners, the organization provides a network of support centred on each child’s development. The project includes weekly individual and group literacy activities, assessment of reading levels using a standardized tool, and the maintenance of a dedicated reading corner that offers a safe and engaging space for learning.  Teachers receive professional training to enhance their ability to teach and monitor literacy skills, knowledge that extends far beyond the project’s duration and benefits future generations. Parents take part in awareness sessions that emphasize the critical role of reading at home, helping them build stronger educational routines for their children. To strengthen community involvement, the project also organizes volunteering events in partnership with Air Liquide employees. Supported by the Air Liquide Foundation, Reading Adventure makes it possible for 60 children to access consistent, meaningful educational experiences, receive warm meals during activities, and develop the reading skills essential for their future success.

The Reading Adventure Program is transforming the way children from vulnerable communities experience learning. Thanks to the support of the Air Liquide Foundation, we are able to provide structured educational activities that help children improve their reading skills, gain confidence, and remain motivated to stay in school. This partnership allows us to focus on quality, impact, and long-term results, ensuring that every child we reach has a real chance to succeed.”

 — Adriana Dobrea,  Executive Director, United Way Romania

What the Air Liquide Foundation does

Thanks to the support of the Air Liquide Foundation, 60 children are assessed for their literacy level, take part in weekly reading activities, and receive a warm meal or snack during each session. The funding also helps maintain a fully functional reading corner, giving children a safe and inviting space to learn. At the same time, it enables the training of two teachers who will continue supporting future generations with stronger literacy tools. The Foundation’s support further makes it possible to involve the community by organizing volunteer activities, with at least 10 Air Liquide employees joining reading or holiday events with the children. Through these actions, the Foundation’s contribution directly strengthens the daily impact of the project and helps build long‑term educational opportunities for vulnerable children.

Air Liquide Employee Involvement

Air Liquide employees contribute through dedicated volunteer events where they read with the children, join non‑formal educational activities, or take part in celebrations such as Christmas, Easter, or Children’s Day. Their involvement is expected to include at least 10 volunteers, helping create motivating and engaging experiences for the 60 participating children.