TURNING THE PAGE: Service Day 2026 supports literacy and learning with Reading Connections

Strong communities are built through intentional effort and a commitment to creating opportunities that last. This core belief extends into classrooms, training spaces and organizations helping people learn important life skills.

That same mindset guided our recent Service Day with Reading Connections. Through the United Way of Greater Greensboro, we connected with their team and identified an opportunity to support an updated space dedicated to learning.

Who is Reading Connections?

Reading Connections is a Guilford County nonprofit focused on improving literacy for children, adults and families. Their work centers on helping people build the reading and language skills needed for everyday life, education and employment.

Through adult literacy instruction, English language learning, family literacy programs and career training, they support learners at different stages of life. Community volunteers play a key role in extending that reach and keeping programs accessible.

Updating a Space for Learning

On April 20–21, 2026, our team helped refresh their classrooms, meeting areas and shared spaces to make them more functional and adaptable for daily use. The updates were designed to support instruction, improve organization and create a more welcoming environment for students and staff.

Over these two days, our team installed furniture, set up classrooms, and implemented updates that improve how the spaces function day to day.

Improvements included:

• Rolling tables and chairs for flexible classroom layouts
• New cabinets, cubbies and hooks for improved storage of books and student belongings
• Updated whiteboards and TVs to support instruction and group learning
• Painted accent walls to bring warmth and energy into the space
• New graphics and photography highlighting program values and participants

The transformation was the result of a fully coordinated group effort. Multiple teams worked together to plan, install and finalize each update within a tight, two-day timeline, turning a long list of improvements into a finished, functional space that inspires learning and growth. As Lisa Escue, ESOL Director at Reading Connections, shared: “With this partnership with Saf-Gard, I was most excited about transforming our space from a space that works to a space that welcomes.”

A Connection That Comes Full Circle

This project also connects back to our own team in a meaningful way. Courtney Little, a Saf-Gard^® employee, completed Reading Connections’ Advanced Manufacturing Training Program and now works as a Mobile Shoe Store Manager while also supporting operations in our Greensboro warehouse.

It’s a direct example of how these programs create real pathways from education into employment.

Get Involved

Organizations like Reading Connections play an important role in building long-term opportunities in our community. Literacy support means greater access, growing confidence and the ability to move forward in education and work. Reading Connections continues to welcome volunteers who want to support learners directly through tutoring, literacy programs and family-focused initiatives. They’re also expanding opportunities for students at every stage of learning.

For more info, visit readingconnections.org.