San Marcos, TX — The San Marcos Area Chamber of Commerce is proud to spotlight a meaningful opportunity to support the success of local students: the Reading Buddies program, a volunteer initiative led by Communities In Schools of Central Texas. The Chamber is encouraging business leaders, professionals, and residents across the community to get involved in making a difference.
Reading Buddies connects adult volunteers with elementary school students for weekly, one-on-one reading sessions held during school hours. These consistent interactions help students strengthen their reading skills, boost self-confidence, and develop a lifelong love of learning—one book, one student, one hour at a time.
“Strong readers make strong students, and strong students build a stronger San Marcos,” said Page Michel, President of the San Marcos Chamber of Commerce. “We’re proud to help raise awareness for the Reading Buddies program and encourage our members and neighbors to get involved in this important effort.”
The program is organized and managed by Communities In Schools of Central Texas (CIS), and the Chamber is jumping on board to amplify the call for volunteers—particularly within the local business community. Volunteers are asked to commit just one hour per week with the same student throughout the school year or a single semester, offering consistent caring support that can have a lasting impact both inside and outside the classroom.
Decades of research have shown that early literacy is a key predictor of future academic achievement, high school graduation rates, and career readiness. By supporting initiatives like Reading Buddies, the San Marcos Chamber and business community are investing in a brighter, more resilient future for the city.
In addition to Reading Buddies, Communities In Schools offers other volunteer opportunities, including Math Buddies and a Mentors program. All of these roles give community members a chance to get involved to build meaningful relationships that empower students to succeed..
It’s fast and easy to register online and get full details in your in-box! Visit ciscentraltexas.org/volunteer.
Reach out to the Chamber with any questions at chamber@sanmarcostexas.com or call 512-393-5900.
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About the San Marcos Area Chamber of Commerce
The Chamber provides ADVOCACY and CONNECTIONS for businesses to THRIVE. The Chamber mission is to improve the economic prosperity and quality of life of its members through leadership, education, and business advocacy. The Chamber’s vision is to be the leading membership organization that collaborates with stakeholders to develop an environment where businesses thrive, leadership is encouraged, students excel, housing is ample and attainable, all members are active, and quality of life is a priority. More Chamber information is available at SanMarcosTexas.com.