To support the social, emotional and reading skills that are foundational for student success by advancing our literacy platform and mobilizing community volunteers.
Why? Fewer than half of Kansas City, Missouri third graders are reading on grade level. In many high-need schools, it’s fewer than 25 percent. Children who are not reading by third grade are four times more likely to drop out of high school. Lead to Read KC is addressing this challenge. Learn more >
Watch this short video to learn more about Lead to Read KC's mission and the impact of our program — and how easy it is to get involved.
What We Do
Provide reading and mentoring support to students in first through third grade who attend high-need schools.
Provide individualized tutoring by certified teachers.
Distribute books — and provide social-emotional support via author partnerships.
Not attending Get Schooled? Build Dreams Off Site!
There is now a waitlist for Get Schooled: Building Dreams, which will take place at the iconic Union Station on Friday, June 9. If you can’t attend, you can still make a donation or bid in the Super Silent Auction!
Celebrate your Birthday with Lead to Read KC
Do you have a birthday this month? Click here to find out how you can celebrate with Lead to Read KC and get a sweet treat for yourself!
Buy a Lead to Read KC T-shirt
Do you wear your heart on your sleeve? How about your support for Lead to Read KC? Well, now’s your chance! Order a T-shirt to help spread the word and support our mission to advance children’s literacy in Kansas City!
Our Impact: 2022-23 School Year
1,126
students received mental health-themed author visits
1,042
students paired with 1,100+ Reading Mentors
29
schools served
22,529
books distributed
494
students received online personalized tutoring from a certified teacher
