Raising Cane’s & Read To Me International Celebrate 5 Years of Partnership

Raising Cane’s Chicken Fingers is partnering with Read To Me International (RTMI) for the fifth consecutive year to promote literacy throughout National Reading Month, with events scheduled throughout March. The restaurant chain is hosting a series of reading events aimed at inspiring children and families to embrace reading, offering giveaways and special programs at its Hawaii locations. The initiative, which began in 2021, aims to address literacy gaps by providing parents with the skills and techniques to engage their children in reading. RTMI, a Hawaii-based nonprofit founded in 1996, focuses on the importance of reading aloud to children, citing research that demonstrates a significant impact on vocabulary development and oral language skills. According to RTMI, children who are regularly read to hear an estimated 30 million more words than those who are not. Raising Cane’s marketing leader Ali Urbick highlighted the company’s commitment to education, noting the participation of prominent figures like actress Amy Hill in previous years. “We have been doing this for four years now and have been grateful to have big names like Amy Hill and other big names pitch in and be a part of what we’re trying to do,” Urbick said. This year’s program includes a stamp card system where each stamp earned equates to one free book. Upon collecting seven stamps, parents and children are rewarded with a complimentary keiki meal from Raising Cane’s. Events feature interactive storytelling and tips for parents on how to make reading enjoyable for their children, led by educator and actor Susan Hawes. RTMI emphasizes the critical importance of early childhood brain development, stating that the first three years of a child’s life are crucial for emotional and intellectual growth. The organization recommends dedicating at least 10 minutes each day to reading aloud to children. Throughout March, RTMI representatives will host free book readings and bookmark-making activities every Saturday from 10:30 a.m. To 12 p.m. Interested individuals can register for in-person reading events and find more information about National Reading Month and RTMI by contacting [email protected]. RTMI also hosts family literacy events and an annual conference in June, alongside parent/caregiver and educator dialogic reading workshops. The organization’s annual fundraiser, “Feed Me A Story,” takes place in the fall.