For nearly a decade, Hallmark has been a steadfast supporter of Lead to Read KC — helping connect caring adults with young readers across Kansas City. Since 2016, Hallmark has supported our mission through volunteer recruitment, corporate funding, and hands-on help with book orders and donation sorting. But their most enduring impact comes from the 20+ Hallmark employees who serve as Reading Mentors, many of whom have volunteered for seven years or more.
“Education is one of Hallmark’s philanthropic pillars,” said Alison Manthei, Community Impact Manager. “We know that education is the foundation for all future opportunities. Without literacy, we won’t have innovation and the comprehension needed for critical thinking. We want to see our entire community flourish, and that starts with equipping families and individuals with the tools they need to be successful.”
That belief aligns beautifully with Hallmark’s mission to help people live caring, connected lives. For Hallmark Reading Mentors, those connections form one page and one conversation at a time.
“Our volunteers take pride in the small ways they build bridges with their students,” Manthei said. “They notice their students’ interests, celebrate their progress, and help them feel safe making mistakes. Many tell me they get just as much from volunteering as the students do.”
A Legacy of Dedication
Among Hallmark’s Reading Mentors are veterans who have spent years helping students grow in confidence and skill. Jeanette Countee, a retired Hallmark employee, has been reading with students for eight years.
“Patience is needed; success with your student doesn’t come overnight,” she said. “But you see progress, and that’s what the program is all about. I feel I’m making a difference one student at a time.”
Jim Griffen, a Product Integrity Analyst, echoed that sentiment after seven years of mentoring. “I’ve had some troubled kids over the years, and by the end of the school year, they had a better handle on reading—or at least, an enthusiasm to read,” he shared. “There’s no pressure to be anyone but yourself. Most of the kids just want an adult who shows up and listens.”
For Robb Traylor, an Account Specialist, the joy comes from the students’ excitement. “When you see how happy the kids are to see you each week, it makes that 30-minute commitment all the more meaningful,” he said. “At my current school, I even get a big smile and a fist bump from a student I read with a few years ago.”
And for Rebecca Coulson, a Program Officer at the Hall Family Foundation, the experience has been both fulfilling and inspiring. “It’s easy to make it work, and it means so much to the kids,” she said. “My second year, my student drew a picture of the two of us reading together. I still have it hanging in my office.”
That same spirit of service extends beyond the classroom. Retired Hallmark employee LaDonna Echols serves on Lead to Read KC’s Board of Directors, reflecting the deep and lasting connection between Hallmark and Lead to Read KC.
Reading and Recharging
One reason Hallmark employees stay so committed is the flexibility and energy that Lead to Read KC’s model provides. “Volunteering during the workday makes it easy for employees to give back while still having time for family in the evenings,” said Manthei. “It’s also a refreshing break in the day — an opportunity to step away from screens and reconnect on a human level.”
Some volunteers even find ways to use their unique skills while mentoring. “Our bilingual readers love the chance to use Spanish weekly,” Manthei said. “It’s amazing to see how language can help students feel seen and included.”
Looking Ahead
Hallmark hopes to match even more students with Reading Mentors in the years ahead and continue supporting Lead to Read KC in flexible, meaningful ways.
“To organizations not yet involved, I’d say make it easy for your employees to participate,” Manthei advised. “This is win-win time. Volunteers help a child build a vital life skill, and they come back to work recharged and inspired. Lead to Read will find a time and place that works for your team, so there’s really nothing to lose.”
At Lead to Read KC, we’re deeply grateful for Hallmark’s long-term partnership and the dozens of employees who have made literacy — and connection — a lasting part of their story.
Interested in bringing your organization into the story?
Learn how your company can partner with Lead to Read KC at leadtoreadkc.org/ways-to-act.
