The heart of Lead to Read KC’s mission is finding partners who share our belief that all students deserve to read. Standing shoulder-to-shoulder with us from the very beginning is a true champion for education: American Century Investments.
American Century was among the very first corporations to join forces when our Reading Mentor program launched in 2011. Today, their impact is significant, with 24 employees currently reading at multiple schools across the metro.
The company’s commitment to Lead to Read isn’t just a corporate partnership; it’s a deeply ingrained belief in the transformative power of reading. This dedication resonates strongly with individuals like Scott Swezy, Vice President of Intermediary Distribution at American Century and a proud member of the Lead to Read KC board.
Scott and his wife embarked on their journey as Reading Mentors two years ago, when an introduction to Lead to Read’s vital mission was sparked by attending a fundraising gala in 2023. For Scott, the importance of literacy isn’t just a professional understanding – it’s woven into the fabric of his family. “Education runs deep in my family,” he shared. “My grandmother was a teacher, my dad served on a school board, and my wife, Kari, dedicated 30 years to teaching in the Lee’s Summit School District.”
When asked what he would say to encourage others to get involved with Lead to Read, Scott’s message is clear and compelling: “Literacy is the cornerstone to everything, and it’s important that everyone has opportunities to master reading.” His perspective is also informed by his work in the financial sector. “In our business,” he aptly points out, “there won’t be financial literacy without basic literacy.”
Todd Peters started volunteering in 2011 and has continued to read with students over the past seven years since he retired from American Century. For him, his commitment is very personal. “I feel very strongly about helping students. My dad couldn’t read and I remember when I was in high school, going with him to read work documents or a job application.”
A remarkable level of engagement is also fostered through the company’s Business Resource Groups. Their internal network empowers staff to connect with causes they care about, including Lead to Read KC. Stephanie Atkinson, from American Century’s Client Business Management division, is a Reading Mentor, joined the Lead to Read Associate Board last year and shares: “Through my involvement with American Century’s Business Resource Groups, we’ve been able to host Lunch and Learns to recruit new readers, expanding our reach and deepening our community impact.”
American Century’s enduring partnership with Lead to Read KC serves as a shining example of how corporate engagement can directly impact the lives of young people. Their dedication not only provides crucial one-on-one support for students but also inspires others to recognize the profound importance of literacy.
Thanks to the unwavering support of partners like American Century and the dedication of their volunteers, Lead to Read KC continues to expand and create a world where every child has the opportunity to unlock their full potential through the power of reading. Join American Century and our other corporate partners, by choosing to get involved through the ideas on our Ways to Act page.
