At Lead to Read KC, we know that lasting impact comes not just from institutions, but from individuals who choose to show up for children week after week. One inspiring example is the group of volunteers connected to the University of Missouri-Kansas City (UMKC). While there’s no formal partnership between Lead to Read KC and the university, UMKC faculty, staff, alumni and friends are stepping up on their own to strengthen literacy in Kansas City schools.
Ground-Level Commitment
For JaVon Hill, Director of UMKC’s Men of Character Academy, volunteering began as a personal commitment when he returned to Kansas City in 2023. Reading weekly with students at Center Elementary quickly became a highlight of his schedule.
“It’s more than just reading a book together,” JaVon said. “You realize the impact of simply showing up and being consistent. That responsibility means a lot to me, and it’s something I truly cherish.”
JaVon also credits the Lead to Read KC staff for making volunteering seamless: from scheduling to providing culturally relevant books, he’s found the program designed with both students and mentors in mind. “They go above and beyond to make it easy for us to focus on what matters most—building relationships with kids.”
That passion led him to join Lead to Read KC’s Associate Board, where he now helps guide the future of the program. “It’s a chance to help create the same kind of support and opportunities that shaped me.”
Leadership by Example
Sue Agrawal, spouse of UMKC’s Chancellor, has given years of service both as a Reading Mentor and until recently as a member of Lead to Read KC’s Board of Directors. She emphasizes that her involvement is a personal decision, driven by a belief that reading is foundational to education at every level.
“Being an educational institution that accepts many students who are products of the K-12 public education system, it is natural for UMKC community members to support efforts that strengthen educational development. Reading is fundamental to success in school, to critical thinking, and navigating the higher education world.” Agrawal said.
She also praises Lead to Read KC’s adaptability. When the pandemic made in-person sessions impossible, the team partnered with Hoot Reading to keep students and mentors connected virtually. “It showed just how innovative and committed the organization is to ensuring kids don’t miss out on literacy support, no matter the circumstances.”
A Flextra Perspective
For Felicia Londré, Curators’ Distinguished Professor Emerita of Theatre, volunteering opened her eyes to the wide range of reading abilities among early elementary students. When one of her mentees moved away, she stepped in as a flextra—a Reading Mentor who fills in where needed.
“Over a period of weeks, I read with four different second graders and was astounded at the huge variation in ability,” Londré said. “One read chapter books with ease while another struggled even to sound out most words.”
Her experience reflects both the challenges and rewards of consistent mentoring: being present, adapting to each child’s needs, and celebrating progress big and small.
A Collective Impact
Though their roles differ—mentor, board member, associate board member—all three volunteers share a belief in the transformative power of literacy. They also share gratitude for the Lead to Read KC team, whose thoughtful preparation, innovative tools, and welcoming spirit make volunteering both impactful and joyful.
Together, these UMKC-connected champions remind us that meaningful change often begins not with formal programs, but with individuals who care deeply about their community—and with an organization willing to equip them every step of the way.
