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.
Blog 2025
“I never want to miss a week.”
A proud Kansas City resident and longtime American Century Investments employee, Alane Watts discovered Lead to Read KC during her company’s Volunteer Appreciation Week.
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.
American Century: Impacting KC Students
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 American Century.
Kansas City Reads Breakfast Photos
On April 24, Lead to Read KC held the inaugural Kansas City Reads Business Breakfast, sponsored by Hallmark.
Literacy Fueled by Fraternity
When Albert Ray first heard about Lead to Read KC, it wasn’t just another volunteer opportunity—it was a call to action.
From Brotherhood to Books
For more than a century, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Beta Lambda Chapter, has been a leader in community service, mentorship, and education in Kansas City. When Lead to Read KC learned the fraternity was interested in introducing our Reading Mentoring program at Hogan Preparatory Academy, we couldn’t wait to partner with the respected group so rooted in service and impact.
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.
Small Commitment with Huge Returns
Through their partnership with Lead to Read KC, the HNTB’s Kansas City office employees also gain lasting benefits in their lives. Dan Ferguson emphasized, “You receive as much joy from these 8 and 9-year-olds as they are getting from you. Sometimes, it’s a great reminder to not take life too seriously.” Gabe Olsen added, “It really checks all of the boxes for worthwhile outreach: easy to commit to, flexible options, and a mini break from work can do wonders for you.”
It’s Just Plain Fun!
Gabe Olsen, from HNTB, has been a Reading Mentor since 2018 and says “I learned over the first couple of years that even on days when I’m busy and stressed, I’m so glad that I took the break to go meet with my kiddo 100% of the time,” says Olsen. “It’s just plain fun!”