Sarasota teachers is reading in the program with two students. They are in the library reading a book.

MEET OUR TEAM

Sarasota tutors for kids 12 and under

Our team at Percy's Friends, Inc. is a group of passionate individuals dedicated to creating a positive impact in the lives of children and families. We understand the importance of nurturing a love for reading and providing essential resources to help young learners succeed in both school and life.

OUR MISSION

Percy’s Friends supports elementary children and their families in literacy development with intentional programs, community resources, and evidence-based tutoring

About Percy’s Friends

1 in 4 Florida adults lack basic literacy skills.

We’re here to change this statistic and give every child in Sarasota County access to evidence-based literacy tutoring and support.

Percy’s Friends was created to be a holistic response to the increasing reading crisis in our community. We’re helping our 12 and under readers make meaningful progress through three different levels of support:

Family Resources – connecting the entire family to governmental programs and community resources to address immediate needs
Interest + Reading Level – connecting kids with high-quality, on-level books about topics they are excited about
Evidence-based Tutoring – connecting kids reading below grade-level or at-risk for reading below grade-level to experienced literacy tutors and well-trained dogs for stress-free, non-judgmental practice

We’re excited to partner with local organizations, schools, animal shelters, and libraries to further our mission.

The purple book and the blue book are held by a woman's hand. She is in the library and there is a shelf with a pile of books.

Best tutoring in reading program in sarasota county in florida

Meet Our Founder

Hi, I’m Alisha!

I was born and raised in Sarasota County, attending public schools in the area before studying at Florida State University and then law school. I faced my own challenges while growing up, and reading gave me a sense of control and an important feeling of belonging.

After finding myself substitute teaching while living in Colorado, I realized how much I loved helping children learn and grow. I also saw an alarming number of children falling behind. After becoming a teacher myself – I’ve been in the classroom for 6 years now – I knew I needed to do more.

Percy’s Friends is a product of my expertise, experience, and passion. Pairing struggling readers with sweet, non-judgmental dogs as practice partners felt like the most natural option – given my teaching background and life-long love of animals.

I’m proud to serve our local community and I’m excited to see what’s possible for the kids of Sarasota County!

Donate Today and Make a Lasting Impact

Your financial support, regardless of the amount, creates ripples of positive change in the lives of children and families. Join us in our mission to empower young minds and promote a lifelong love for reading

Your contribution is an investment in education, growth, and the success of future generations

MONETARY DONATIONS