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!”
Lockton’s commitment to corporate social responsibility is deeply embedded in its culture. “Community care is part of our DNA,” explains David Lowe, Senior Vice President and Lead to Read KC board member. “Through our partnership with Lead to Read, we feel a profound responsibility to support the growth and success of Kansas City’s youth.”
Burns & McDonnell has been a dedicated partner of Lead to Read KC since 2013, demonstrating the profound impact that corporate engagement can have on improving reading skills in Kansas City. The company recognized the vital role in the community and partnering with Lead to Read KC aligned perfectly with their values.
Seth Hensarling says the best part of being a Reading Mentor is how connecting with a young reader is good for everyone. “Kids find the simple joys joyful and the wonders and truths of life wonderful – that is good medicine! Mentors and students benefit from being mutually excited to spend time together.”
Beyond her role as a Major in the Kansas City, Kansas Police Department, Magee has a passion for education and community engagement. “I’ve always had an interest in empowering and helping children learn. Lead to Read KC has such a positive impact on the students lives where it changes their trajectory, not only educationally but also in terms of self-esteem and productivity.”
When Phillips tells her colleagues about being a Reading Mentor, she shares how much the commitment means to her. “You make a connection with a child and actually see improvement while you are working with them. It melts your heart!”
Together, we made an impact to be incredibly proud of this year. More of you are reading with us than ever. More students are getting world class tutoring than ever. More books are waiting for kiddos than ever. More author visits are happening than ever. Yes, more work is to be done, but if any city can do it, it is us.
Our Book Collectors initiative is off to a great start with more than a dozen, and still growing, organizations, companies or individuals gathering new and like-new children’s books for Lead to Read KC. This consistent stream of donated materials helps us fill...
Recently Mike McGuire’s sessions as a Reading Mentor at Genesis School inspired him to get creative.
Jamie Morrow Nelson might be new to Lead to Read KC but she’s already figured out why being a Reading Mentor is so meaningful.