The much-loved summertime children’s literacy program, “Reading and Rhythm on the Riverfront” (R3), returns on July 6 as General Motors (GM) and the Detroit Riverfront Conservancy team up to kick off its 13th season. The event will take place at the picturesque Gabriel Richard Park, nestled along the East Riverfront, with sessions scheduled for Thursdays and Fridays until August 11, at 10:00 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. respectively.
“Reading and Rhythm on the Riverfront” is designed to promote literacy in Southeastern Michigan in an engaging and interactive manner, offering children and their families an opportunity to embrace the vibrancy of the Detroit Riverfront. With over 25,000 participants served since its inception, R3 has been a significant success.
The continuation of this free program is made possible, in part, by the generous grant from GM, which also extends its support to the Detroit Riverfront Conservancy’s 2023 volunteer activities. The Conservancy’s volunteers contribute over 6,000 hours annually to enhance the experience of the Detroit Riverfront’s public events and programs.
Terry Rhadigan, GM’s Vice President of Corporate Giving, expressed excitement about carrying on the tradition of Reading & Rhythm on the Riverfront at the country’s top-rated riverfront. “Over the last 12 years, thousands of kids and their families have enjoyed this summer series. While each year brings something new, it’s anchored around making reading fun,” Rhadigan stated.
Each R3 session will feature readings by local business and community leaders, as well as professional storytellers. The program is complemented by live family entertainment and healthy snacks, provided in partnership with the YMCA of Metropolitan Detroit. Furthermore, GM, in collaboration with the Detroit Public Library’s Mobile Library, will present each child with a free book, encouraging the love for reading.
Renee Rodriguez, Programming Manager at the Detroit Riverfront Conservancy, expressed enthusiasm about the 13th season and highlighted the program’s significance to the community. “Reading & Rhythm has become one of our most popular programs, and we are excited for our 13th season to begin. This program is important to our community, and we are grateful to our sponsors and partners that help make this program possible,” Rodriguez said.
Each R3 session will commence with a local performer providing interactive live entertainment, encouraging audience participation and dancing. These approximately 45-minute sessions will feature a variety of music genres, including folk, rock, jazz, Motown, and reggae. Following the entertainment, families are encouraged to obtain a complimentary book from the Detroit Library Book Mobile. The program will be hosted at Gabriel Richard Park, located just east of the bridge to Belle Isle at 7130 E. Jefferson in Detroit.
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