So far 1,450 volunteers have committed to being Reading Mentors for the 2025-26 school year. That puts us at 82% of our goal—an incredible milestone. We’re deeply grateful to each of them. But 500 students are still waiting.
Rhea Muchalla LeGrande
Our Collective Impact: One Student, One Story at a Time
As we gear up for a new school year, we’re celebrating the powerful progress our community made together. Here’s how we helped students turn the page on what’s possible.
Because of You: 29,004 Moments That Mattered
Thanks to your dedication, we were able to serve 31 schools across Kansas City during the 2024-25 school year. And, with your continued support, we aim to expand to three more schools.
One Year In
One year in, I’ve learned so much. I’ve learned how fiercely this city loves its kids. I’ve learned how many people care about literacy. And I’ve learned that when we work together, we can build something powerful.
Happy Birthday to Us, Happy Birthday to Us…
This month, Lead to Read KC turns 14! That means 14 years of empowering young readers, building community partnerships, and working toward a future where literacy is a right, not a privilege. What started as a small group of volunteers has grown into a movement, with 1800+ Reading Mentors showing up each week to make a difference in students’ lives.
Don’t Just Reflect on History; Be Part of It
The picture we often have of reading is rather inert: sitting still, a book in hand, and maybe a dog curled up on our lap. However, I have always experienced reading as anything but passive. It is an action-filled act, a journey that connects us to community, history, and identity. Through books, we explore worlds beyond our own and uncover the stories that have shaped us. In my house, we have intentionally created a bookshelf that takes us across generations, identities and histories.
Dream Big, Let Go, and Mentor Boldly
It’s a new year! If I’m honest, the onset of a New Year used to bring me an interesting mix of enthusiasm and anxiety.
You Are Essential to the Story
Our vision of a more loving, connected Kansas City is why so many of you support Lead to Read KC. You are an essential part of this story as we work toward a future where literacy is the foundation for a thriving Kansas City.
Read, Repeat, Rejoice
Through incredible community support, we are currently approaching 1,600 volunteers across 30 schools. Every week, you, our Reading Mentors, bring the joy of reading to students, build their reading confidence, and deepen your standing as a community member that really cares.
Read a Good Book with a Great Kid
Here in Kansas City, leading looks like sitting down and reading a good book with a great kid. I’m so grateful to be leading alongside each of you.