The start of a new year often comes with pressure in the form of resolutions, plans, expectations and more. At Lead to Read KC, we want to begin 2026 a little differently. We want to start by slowing down, and, of course, by reading.
Can you give yourself 15 minutes to read something that brings you joy today?
Not because it’s productive.
Not because it checks a box.
But because reading, at its best, reminds us why literacy matters in the first place.
That sense of joy that comes from getting lost in a good book isn’t a byproduct of reading; it’s foundational. It’s also one of the most important things our Reading Mentors bring into classrooms every day. In a recent survey, 97% of students shared that they associate “fun” and other positive words with their time spent reading with their mentor. When reading feels joyful, relational, and affirming, it becomes something students want to return to time and time again.
That is where literacy begins.
15 Minutes Today. 15 Years of Showing Up.
That simple invitation, 15 minutes of joyful reading, is also how we’re choosing to mark an important milestone.
In 2026, Lead to Read KC celebrates 15 years of working alongside schools, volunteers, and partners to make literacy a priority in Kansas City. Over those years, we’ve seen again and again that when students experience reading as something shared and supportive, everything shifts.
Our work has been shaped by:
- Building consistent, caring relationships in classrooms through Reading Mentors
- Mobilizing volunteers across every sector of our community to show up for students
- Partnering deeply with schools, companies, and community organizations to expand access to books and reading support
- Holding the belief that literacy is foundational to opportunity, voice, and belonging
As we reflect on this milestone, one thing is clear:
Our shared future starts with sharing a book. So, as we launch our 15th year, we’re inviting our community to begin with intention.
- Share 15 minutes reading something you love
- Share Lead to Read KC with someone new
- Share your time, voice, or support in a way that feels meaningful
This year will bring moments to celebrate, reflect, and give back — from book drives and mentor stories to citywide events and new partnerships. But it all begins the same way it always has: by choosing to make reading part of everyday life.
Thank you for being part of this story, yesterday, today and tomorrow!
Scenes from the first Reading Session at Whittier Elementary in 2011.
