READ (Rural Education and Development) Global believes that empowering rural communities is critical to alleviating global poverty. We envision a world where individuals, families and entire communities have access to the knowledge, resources and opportunities necessary to build more prosperous futures. READ brings together education, enterprise and community development to create lasting social change in rural South Asia. We partner with villages to build Community Library and Resource Centers (READ Centers) that include a fully stocked library and computer room, as well as programs on topics ranging from literacy and women's empowerment to livelihood skills and health education. Each READ Center is paired with a for-profit enterprise that generates income to sustain the center in the long run. WHY IT MATTERS It is estimated that more than 70% of the world’s poor live in rural areas. To make true progress toward global poverty alleviation, a focus on economic growth in rural areas of the developing world is crucial. READ works with some of the most economically disadvantaged populations in the world, where literacy rates are less than 50% and more than half of families live below the poverty line. READ empowers individuals with the skills and knowledge to thrive and prosper in their own communities. GET INVOLVED Help us achieve prosperity in rural communities in South Asia. To learn more, visit www.readglobal.org or call 415.563.3362.