Incorporated in 2002, Beyond Basics is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit working to eradicate illiteracy, transforming the lives of students and creating stronger communities. Our program provides a diagnostic assessment followed by one-on-one, phonics-based, multisensory tutoring that combines the Orton-Gillingham prescriptive approach with fine arts activities essential for building vocabulary and comprehension. It’s hourlong, daily, highest dosage tutoring that cultivates curiosity, encourages a love of learning, and delivers results: we see students achieve grade-level movement in an average of six weeks. 

What We Do

Our school-embedded program includes:
  • Woodcock Mastery diagnostic student assessment with a certified Michigan teacher
  • individualized, one-on-one, phonics-based, multisensory literacy instruction from trained, staff tutors
  • a curriculum that combines Orton-Gillingham methodology with fine arts activities
Outcome data indicate that students make gains in reading proficiency in an average of six weeks. Testimonials indicate that improving literacy gives students new confidence that carries over in all classroom subject areas. Older students report a new sense of what is possible. They see new pathways for self-expression and self-advocacy, as well as college and career options.
Student Assessment
Student Assessment

Each student’s reading skills are evaluated by a Michigan certified teacher who writes a prescription to guide the student-tutor relationship.

Hands-On Learning
Hands-On Learning

Students use a multisensory tile board, giving them a hands-on experience in their pursuit of reading.

Individualized Tutoring
Individualized Tutoring

Trained tutors support students as they work one-on-one, one hour a day, building on existing skills to unlock the power of reading.

Expanding Horizons
Expanding Horizons

Story writing and publishing, fine arts projects, plus lessons from the lives of leaders build essential comprehension and vocabulary as we connect students to the world.

Beyond Basics: A Seamless Part of the School Day

Working in lockstep with the schools we serve, our intensive literacy intervention weaves seamlessly into the school day. Students spend a class period each weekday in our dedicated and inviting classroom to work one-on-one with a trained tutor. Together, they proceed through an individualized reading plan. See it in action here.

Illiteracy is the Most Solvable Epidemic in the United States

Society is counting on getting education right for our students, and this starts with literacy. We are dedicated to helping generations of young people succeed as readers, and we take great pride in their accomplishments. With literacy, a world of opportunity opens to them, and they can transform their lives and communities.

Joique Bell starts literacy initiative in Benton Harbor

Joique Bell, former Benton Harbor High School football standout and Detroit Lions running back, is on a mission to tackle the literacy problem in his hometown in partnership with Beyond Basics. Watch the video to hear Joique's heart on the issue, as well as learn more about the problem and our proven solution. Literacy is for everyone.

Latest News

DETROIT, March 10, 2023 – On Friday, March 3, literacy nonprofit Beyond Basics kicked off National Reading Month by hosting their Coming Together for Children Annual Eventat the Detroit Athletic

...

Pamela Good was recognized and named one of Crain's 2022 Notable Women in Nonprofits. 

This diverse group of women are leaders in service and their communities. They utilize their

...

Since kindergarten, high school students have shown up to school every day ready to learn, and we have failed them (“...

Join Our Mailing List

Stay up-to-date with everything happening at Beyond Basics
Student with Book

Sponsor a Child

Every individual has the power to help tackle challenges even as complex as the literacy crisis in education. 

 

We encourage all who are interested in making a difference in the lives of Detroit area students to inquire about the many ways to get involved with Beyond Basics. Coworkers, friends, book clubs, church groups, sports teams, and more are all invited to volunteer and to generously support our literacy efforts, and in so doing, forever change the life of a student in Detroit.

$
0
M
Donations
0
K+
Volunteers
0
K+
Students Helped
0
K+
Student Books Published

Thank You to Our Sponsors!

Image
Image
Image
Image
Image
Image
Image
Image
Image
Image
Image

Be the Solution

Donate today to give the gift of reading to a child.

Beyond Basics Logo
18000 West Nine Mile Road
Suite 450
Southfield, MI 48075

Contact Us

248-250-9304
Fax: 248-996-9577

info@beyondbasics.org