The Children’s Reading Alliance (CRA) is a 13-year-old literacy nonprofit based in Las Cruces, New Mexico, dedicated to empowering families and communities through literacy. Founded on the belief that reading is the foundation for success, CRA has focused on early childhood literacy, parent engagement, and volunteer-driven reading programs.
Through its core initiatives, CRA equips parents with the tools to be their child’s first teacher, supports third graders in public schools through volunteer reading sessions, and distributes books to families in need. The First Teacher/Primer Maestro™ program is a bilingual, six-week course that builds parents’ confidence in preparing their children for kindergarten. Meanwhile, Reading Buddies pairs volunteers with students to enhance reading fluency and comprehension. CRA also advocates for literacy at the community level, ensuring that children have access to books and the support necessary to develop strong reading habits.
Since its inception, CRA has served over 1,100 families through First Teacher/Primer Maestro™ and reached thousands more through its literacy programs. Moving forward, CRA aims to expand its direct services, strengthen community partnerships, and advocate for literacy policies that benefit children and families.