Summary
Organization name
Vertical Skills Academy
other names
VSA
2014
Tax id (EIN)
46-5281578
Category
Education
Organization Size
Medium Organization
Address
4000 S Wadsworth Blvd Suite 210Littleton, CO 80123
Jefferson County, CO, US
Vertical Skills Academy
A nonprofit organization
$97 raised by 1 donor
0% complete
$40,000 Goal
This Colorado Gives Day , you have the power to change a child’s future. At Vertical Skills Academy (VSA) a non-profit school in Littleton, Colorado, we help students with dyslexia discover the joy of reading and the confidence that comes with it. For our students, learning to read isn’t just an academic goal—it’s a life-changing turning point. With your support, we can open those doors for even more children who are waiting for their chance to succeed.
With about 1 in 5 students having dyslexia, the need for specialized instruction is significant. VSA’s proven approach delivers real results and we want to make a difference for more students—of all backgrounds and income levels. The first step toward this is complete with the opening of our new school in Littleton which offers space to grow and serve more kids. In 2024, we provided $25,000 in scholarships, so with our second goal, we’re aiming to replenish and grow that fund so even more students can read, learn, and thrive.
Every Dollar Goes Further on Colorado Gives Day
Early giving is open now through December 9! Every donation is boosted by a $1 million+ Incentive Fund from Colorado Gives Foundation and FirstBank—the more we raise, the larger our share!
Plus, start a new monthly donation, and the Foundation will match your first month’s gift (up to $100)—doubling your impact and helping students all year long.
Your Gift Changes Lives
When you give to VSA, you’re helping a child with dyslexia experience success in reading—something most of us take for granted. You’re giving them tools for lifelong learning, confidence, and hope.
Ready to Make a Difference?
Visit: https://www.coloradogives.org/organization/VerticalSkillsAcademy “Donate” and choose a one-time or monthly gift. Monthly gifts receive a matching bonus!
Together, we can unlock potential—one reader at a time.
Testimonials
"Literally, after just one day at VSA, he was a different child. He came home full of smiles, telling us that he loved everything at school and that reading and writing were his favorite parts of the day!" -- Father of a 5th grade student
"This very special place has turned our lives around by helping our 2nd grader develop the tools necessary to not just function from day to day, but achieve goals we never thought possible. Our community is extremely fortunate to have access to this extraordinary school." -- Mother of 2nd grade student
"VSA is the best decision we could have made for our daughter after receiving her dyslexia diagnosis. She has gained an amazing amount of confidence, not only in her reading, but her math skills as well. The teachers have an extensive dyslexia knowledge base and expect a high level of achievement from all their students, which I greatly appreciate." -- Mother of 1st grade student
"Our daughter's language skills improved so much that she returned to 'regular school' this year after only one year at VSA. She regularly volunteers to read in front of the class and consistently scores very high in spelling." -- Mother of 3rd grade student
Giving Activity
Mission
VSA is a unique school that specializes in teaching students with dyslexia using explicit, evidence-based, multi-sensory instruction to empower students to reach their full potential.
Background Statement
In 2014, Vertical Skills Academy was founded in response to a growing need for skilled intervention for students with dyslexia. Kara Osberg, a seasoned advocate and experience literacy specialist with two dyslexic children, and Audra Chapleski, a highly-trained STEM teacher and administrator, were a strong team. They envisioned a school where students with similar needs would receive appropriate intervention in an environment in which they were simultaneously challenged and highly supported; where students and their families found a supportive community; and where like-minded educators from all backgrounds were welcomed. VSA continues to provide an educational environment that supports those with dyslexia and language based learning issues while also teaching advocacy skills.
Now in its 11th year, VSA continues to impact students and families with dyslexia. Using evidence-based instruction throughout the curriculum, students thrive!
Media gallery
Organization Data
Littleton, CO 80123