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.
Lead to Read KC is the featured charity partner at Casual Animal Brewing Company, located at 1725 McGee St., in January and February! Two dollars of every pint of Local Motive beer sold goes directly to Lead to Read KC. Bring your friends and family and gather any time at Casual Animal to support Lead to Read KC or check out our Events page to see when we’ll be hosting events there.
Celebrate your Birthday with Lead to Read KC
Do you have a January birthday? Click here to find out how you can celebrate with Lead to Read KC and get a sweet treat for yourself!
Lead to Read KC in the News
Lead to Read KC is a partner in the KMBC Cares for Kids initiative, which aims to help build a brighter future for Kansas City’s children in honor of KMBC’s 70th anniversary. Also, Lead to Read KC recently hosted a panel about literacy’s impact on the city’s future workforce. Visit ourIn the Newspage to watch the coverage and find other recent news stories.
Reading Is Everywhere(SM)
We have expanded our reach to get even more books into the hands of young readers! Our community partners now include more than three dozen social service agencies, hair salons, barber shops, restaurants and retailers — making books more accessible to children outside of schools and libraries. Learn more.
Our Impact: 2021-22 School Year
1,032
students received mental health-themed author visits
553
students paired with 696 Reading Mentors
20
schools served
10,602
books distributed
515
students received online personalized tutoring from a certified teacher
