Energy Express
Energy Express at a glance
48 sites in 26 counties in 2024
88% of children increased or maintained their reading level
17,088 take-home books distributed to participants
55,288 meals served to West Virginia youths
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About Us
Energy Express is a free award-winning, six-week, summer reading and nutrition program for children in first through sixth grades living in West Virginia’s rural and low-income communities. This program aims to prevent the “summer slide,” in which children regress in their reading skills because they aren’t learning during the summer.
During Energy Express, children statewide increase or maintain their reading levels through creative, colorful and captivating uses of books, art, drama and vocabulary. Volunteers, mentors and staff create a print-rich environment where students have access to books and printed materials, opportunities to read and write, and the chance to explore the meaning of text through engaging activities. Daily read-alouds and take-home books are a staple at Energy Express. This unique approach makes reading interesting and fun for students, motivating them to continue learning.
Our program also provides children with two nutritious meals each day during the
program, helping to ensure our youths are fed each day even after the school year
comes to an end.
Energy Express will run from June 16 to July 25, 2025.
If you’re a parent looking to register your child for Energy Express, contact your local WVU Extension office. Energy Express is offered in various counties at select locations.
Connect with Us
Get Involved
AmeriCorps members gain rewarding personal experience, as well as earn an education award, living allowance and community service hours by being involved with Energy Express.
College students who serve as mentors are eligible to receive a $1,565.08 educational award, $4,050 living allowance and 300 service hours.
Energy Express on WVPB-TV
WVU Extension and West Virginia Public Broadcasting have partnered to bring youth programming into the homes of West Virginia families. Viewers can tune in to WVPB-TV to enjoy engaging and fun activities in literacy, STEM, art, cooking, nature and more. Find out about each episode, grab what you need to participate (craft supplies, ingredients for recipes) and join us for the fun!
Did you miss an episode or maybe you want to go back and watch a favorite episode again? You can find all episodes on YouTube! Visit the WVU Extension YouTube channel to watch season five of Energy Express on WVPB. If you already have a YouTube account, be sure to subscribe to our channel and you’ll be notified when a new episode is available.
Donate to Energy Express
Energy Express couldn't exist without the support of communities and people who believe in our program. There are many ways to help make a difference in the lives of young West Virginians by supporting Energy Express. In addition to donating your time by working or volunteering at a site, you can also donate money or supplies to your local program.
Give to Energy Expresstestimonials
See what parents of Energy Express kids have to say.
“My child doesn’t like
to read but has shown interest in the books that were provided by Energy
Express. He has also loved going every day. Per the teachers, he has learned
valuable social skills which are very difficult for him. Thank you so much.”
“My
daughter is more social and is willing to learn to read bigger books. She’s
actually excited to go back to school! She is interested in eating healthier
snacks and also staying on a decent schedule.”
“My son had a lot of
problems, but the changes in teamwork, reading better and understanding more
about the content were showing and improving daily. He also gained more
coordination in physical activities and motion.”
"My
child is bringing me books asking me to read with her and I've even caught her
reading in her free time at home for fun. My child really has enjoyed going to
Energy Express, thanks for all you do!”