News Release: 1/21/2026

United Way Supports Kinship of the Park Rapids Area with Reading Buddies in Park Rapids  Century and Nevis Elementary Schools 

First graders in Park Rapids Century and Nevis Elementary Schools will be supported through Kinship of  the Park Rapids Area’s Reading Buddies Program thanks to a recent Community Response Grant awarded  by United Way of Bemidji Area. Reading Buddies pairs an adult volunteer with a first-grade student to help cultivate early literacy skills and a lifelong love of reading. Weekly meetings are also held to provide mentors and mentees with fun, enriching experiences that deepen their bond and strengthen their skills and love for reading.  

The grant will cover expenses related to the program, including background checks and supplies needed for the weekly mentoring sessions.  

United Way’s Community Response Grants provide swift funding to local non-profits in Hubbard, Beltrami, and Clearwater Counties, who are addressing urgent community needs. By investing in solutions like this,  United Way helps ensure children have every opportunity to realize their potential, from cradle to career.  

Community Response Grants are made possible through the annual United Way Campaign for the  Community. To learn more about these grants – or how you can help support local families – visit www.UnitedWayBemidji.org.