WASHTENAW PROMISE is a grassroots nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting equity in education. We partner with families, schools, and the broader community to support children in Ypsilanti with early learning, literacy, STEAM enrichment, and long-term mentorship. We’re not just here to help—we’re here to walk alongside. Experience how we fulfill our promise each day by viewing the short video featured below.
Over 100 trained volunteers build strong, nurturing connections with young learners across Ypsilanti’s Early Learning Centers, promoting early literacy and social-emotional growth through consistent classroom presence and one-on-one reading relationships.
Year-round workshops and retreats at our Bruin Lake campus empower early childhood educators with tools for literacy instruction, project-based learning, and wellness. Tailored follow-up support ensures lasting impact in the classroom.
Weekly handwritten exchanges between volunteers and preschool students build confidence, creativity, and a love for language—one letter at a time.
We help bring Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library to over 1,000 local children—delivering a free book to their mailbox every month from birth to age five.
Professional actors bring children’s books to life in our free video library—offering joyful storytelling experiences that inspire a lifelong love of reading.
We collaborate with schools, nonprofits, universities, and caring neighbors to grow a literacy-first community for our youngest learners.
“Washtenaw Promise embodies what it means to be a community partner. It has cultivated relationships and connections that positively impact children, families and the professionals that support their well-being and school success.”
Empowering young children in underserved communities through literacy, confidence, and social-emotional growth — supported by volunteers, educator development, and strong community partnerships.
