At Read Northwest, we believe every child deserves the chance to become a confident reader. The Clark County Community Literacy Project is a county-wide initiative designed to strengthen early childhood literacy through community-powered programming, school partnerships, and collaborative events that inspire a love for reading.
Nearly 50% of Clark County’s third graders are not reading at grade level. Over 3,500 students need support to become strong readers. Research shows that third-grade reading proficiency is the strongest predictor of high school graduation and future success.
That’s why Read Northwest, backed by the Keller Foundation, is leading a bold, collaborative movement to close literacy gaps—one child, one school, one neighborhood at a time.
Formerly Read Across Clark County (originally Green Eggs and Ham), this signature event has celebrated books and breakfast for 29 years, founded by Mark Matthias & Ali Novinger of Beaches Restaurant. Now led by Read Northwest, Bites & Books brings the joy of literacy into schools with:
A hot breakfast served at elementary schools
A free book for every first grader
Themed giveaways like sunglasses, leis, and more
A strong message that reading is fun, social, and family-centered
6,000+ first graders served annually`
Participating Districts:
• Vancouver
• Evergreen
• Washougal
Annual Budget: $23,000
Serve all 8,000 first graders in Clark County
New Districts:
• Ridgefield
• Battle Ground
• La Center
• Camas
3-Year Proposed Budget: $100,000 ($33,333 per year)
Thanks to a $50,000 grant from the Keller Foundation, Read Northwest is scaling its impact through community-wide literacy partnerships.
Literature meets live performance—helping kids feel seen and celebrated.
A 4–6-week themed reading series on music, instruments, and orchestras
Live in-school performances by a VSO quintet
Free concert tickets for students
Each featured school recognized at VSO events
Elementary students read books about trades and construction
High schoolers build wooden toolboxes alongside young readers
Mentorship, reading support, and career readiness come together
Book reading: “Dozer Days Paves The Way”
In-school visit from Dozer Dan the mascot
Students receive 3 complimentary Dozer Day tickets (in-kind value: $100,000)
Interactive day with bulldozers, fire trucks & garbage haulers
A 4–6 week themed reading series focused on local public service professionals. Students read age-appropriate books about bravery, teamwork, and emergency services. Special guest visits from:
Fire Departments with trucks and gear
Police K9 units
Drone demonstration teams
Hands-on Q&A and safety learning experiences
911 dispatchers - EMTs and paramedics
Together, we can transform literacy outcomes for thousands of Clark County students. Support the expansion of Bites & Books and our county-wide literacy efforts.
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