ARTS

30. Center for Mallet Percussion Research at Kutztown University

Housed in the recently opened WellsRapp Center for Mallet Percussion Research at Kutztown University, this nonprofit drums up support for rare instruments and recordings and films documenting mallet percussion performers. The 13,250-square-foot facility includes a performing space along with rooms dedicated to a collection of instruments acquired over the last three decades, including marimbas, xylophones, vibraphones and chimes.

610.683.4110 | kuf.org/cmpr

31. Reading Musical Foundation

Believing music to be a foundation for a well-rounded life, the Reading hikes and professional trainings. The grounds are also available for picnics, weddings and birthday parties.

610.670.2267 | smymca.org

26. Youth Volunteer Corps of Reading

Sponsored by VOiCEup Berks — an organization dedicated to connecting Berks Countians to volunteer opportunities — this affiliate of the national Youth Volunteer Corps is a service-learning program for students ages 11 to 18. Projects and activities include Global Youth Service Day, a week-long summer camp, in-school and after school groups and a youth advisory board. voiceupberks.org/yvc

27. Girls on the Run Berks County

Focusing on soles can help focus on souls. Since its founding 10 years ago, Girls on the Run Berks County has impacted more than 4,000 girls’ lives in Berks and Schuylkill counties with an experience-based curriculum that integrates running, helping girls of all ages strengthen their confidence. Each season ends with a celebratory 5K in the spring.

484.332.6132 | gotrberks.org

28. Children’s Alopecia Project

Losing hair at any point in life is difficult, but for children it can be devastating. The Children’s Alopecia Project (CAP) helps those living with the disease, which occurs when the immune system attacks hair follicles. Along with offering support and raising awareness, CAP aims to build self-esteem by changing the emphasis from growing hair to growing confidence.

610.468.1011 childrensalopeciaproject.org

29. The Children’s Home of Reading

For more than 135 years, this nationally accredited social service nonprofit has assisted children and families in crisis across the state. Featuring offices in Berks and Bucks counties and the Greater Lehigh Valley, the Children’s Home of Reading offers specialized residential, educational and community-based programs.

610.478.8266 buildingkidslives.org

Musical Foundation has supported music education and preservation in the area for nearly 100 years. RMF awards more than $200,000 in scholarships annually, provides access to music instruction and instruments, and supports area organizations and projects through grants.

610.376.3395 readingmusicalfoundation.org

32. Yocum Institute for Arts Education

Established in 1934 as the Wyomissing Institute of Fine Arts, Yocum utilizes arts education, performance and programming to enrich the Berks community. Residing in a newly renovated building in West Lawn since 2018, the institute offers a range of classes – including visual arts, theater, dance, martial arts and music – along with residencies, summer camps, kindergarten and pre-school, plays and musicals and gallery space.

610.376.1576 yocuminstitute.org