Start the Adventure in Reading (STAIR), another of our community partners, is near and dear to SCAPC as we have provided a home office for this nonprofit since its inception in 1985. STAIR began as a neighborhood outreach mission of the local Presbyterian Action Council. With the mission to improve the reading skills and self-esteem of lower elementary school students in our community, STAIR provides free weekly one-on-one tutoring sessions to help children learn to read.

In addition to serving students based solely on need and reading ability, STAIR intentionally chooses books that reflect the constituents they serve. A book selection committee from a variety of cultures and backgrounds ensures that the books are diverse and culturally appropriate for the students they serve.

Shannon Able, executive director of STAIR, also said that the non-profit actively recruits tutors from the communities they serve and work to set up sites in areas where the tutoring services are most needed. STAIR team members also continuously communicate with parents and students to ensure they are having a positive experience. In addition, STAIR is about to introduce a new tutor training program that includes trauma informed service, getting to know students and their background, cultural biases and more.