Sing Out and READ Receives Tampa Bay Rays Racial Equity Grant

Backed by the Rays Baseball Foundation and Rowdies Soccer Fund, SOAR, and three other deserving organizations will receive $25,000 each to bolster their community efforts.

In a powerful demonstration of community solidarity, the Tampa Bay Rays have unveiled the recipients of their 2024 Racial Equity Grant, with Sing Out and READ (SOAR) featured among them. Founded in 2019, SOAR has blended music and literature to empower struggling readers aged 6-12 through their Family Literacy Project (FLiP). This initiative utilizes reading interventions on specially configured tablets, fostering rapid improvements in reading fluency within an "in-home" learning environment.

Backed by the Rays Baseball Foundation and Rowdies Soccer Fund, SOAR, and three other deserving organizations will receive $25,000 each to bolster their community efforts in education, youth development, and minority business support. This grant not only underscores the significance of literacy but also highlights SOAR's role in uplifting at-risk youth in Pinellas and Hillsborough County.

Beyond its monetary value, this grant represents a commitment to fostering a more equitable society. By investing in organizations like SOAR, the Rays champion resilience and inclusion, embodying values crucial to community progress. As we commemorate this grant announcement, let us reflect on the enduring legacy of community empowerment and the strides made in advancing justice and equality, both on and off the field.

Take a look at the official press release for more details!