Question 1

How did you get involved with RIF?

Accepted Answer

In April 2013, I first met Al Magid, Founder and Executive Director. I had read an article in The Daily Gazette where Al discussed the woefully low reading and literacy scores for Schenectady City School District students, and he described his plans for helping. So, I contacted him to offer my fundraising experience to help build the program.

Question 2

What are you most proud of?

Accepted Answer

The knowledge that RIF has impacted so many children! Since RIF was founded, our Reading Partners have helped more than 1,500 students work to attain critical grade-level proficiency. In addition, Reading Partners have given at least 50,000 books to these students to keep and bring home. Currently, in 2025, we have over 100 volunteers working one-on-one with 234 students in all 11 elementary schools.

Question 3

What are RIF’s greatest challenges?

Accepted Answer

(1) Recruiting enough Reading Partners to work with all of the students who need the additional reinforcement and (2) raising funds to purchase the many books we distribute.

Question 4

As RIF grows, what are the biggest surprises?

Accepted Answer

I am always amazed by the progress that is made when a group of individuals come together to reach a common goal. RIF continues to grow because of the Reading Partners who are committed to the successful progress of the program. Special activities spearheaded by our volunteers include the Spring into Reading is Fun event sponsored by the Wright Family Foundation. Also, our newest project is Fall into the Alphabet, in which RIF purchased and distributed over 1,100 alphabet books to all Schenectady Pre-K & K students. I never envisioned either of these two projects, and so, I can’t even imagine how RIF will continue to grow and impact the youngest among us.

The Reading Is Fun Program:

Leaders & Supporters

Q&A with Mary Lou Russo, The Reading Is Fun Program COO

MARY LOU RUSSO

How did you get involved with RIF?

What are you most proud of?

What are RIF’s greatest challenges?

As RIF grows, what are the biggest surprises?

The Reading is Fun Program is very grateful to its grantors, partners and supporters. We could not make a difference without their generosity.

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The Reading Is Fun Program, Inc.