Every kid deserves to be a great reader.
What's the cause?
68%
of American 4th graders
are not reading on grade level
In low-income communities, this number is closer to 80%.
But What happens when a sports-led movement changes the box score?
89% of 4th graders
reading on grade level typically graduate high school, regardless of income level.
$63k average income
annually for adults that are reading at a 6th grade level equivalent.
$2.2T annual increase
in average income if kids grow up reading at a 6th grade level equivalent.
Impact Stories
Clemson Community Rallies for Literacy
$55,934 Raised / 550+ Students Impacted
Clemson University’s Men’s Basketball Team partners annually with Champions for Literacy to host a Fight for Literacy Game. The awareness and fundraising around the game benefits award-winning Camp iRock, a local summer reading camp supporting 550+ elementary students in need of literacy intervention work. With strong support from United Way and corporate partner contributions, Champions for Literacy is able to grant funds to ensure Camp iRock is sustained, strengthened, and scaled.
Conrad Hawley Brings “CEO” Energy to Lead&Read NIL Activation
Made CEO, "Chief Energy Officer"
The Iowa State University Men’s Basketball Staff has made Conrad Hawley their “CEO” - Chief Energy Officer. A quick Google Image search of Conrad explains just why he’s been handed this title. Through a partnership between Champions for Literacy and We Will Collective, Iowa State’s NIL Collective, Conrad was able to use NIL for good and read to local elementary students. Conrad used his natural energetic leadership and platform as an athlete to inspire kids to become great readers, bringing a big voice to a big cause.
Dallan Hayden Raises Funds for Local Literacy Programs as High School Athlete
$24,531 Raised for Local Literacy Programs
After persevering through his own journey with literacy, Dallan Hayden, as a high school junior and senior, dedicated his football season to raise funds to bolster local literacy initiatives. For every touchdown scored, Dallan invited friends and family to donate to a campaign called “Touchdowns to Tackle Illiteracy”. Dallan has always impressed both off-the-field and on-the-field, and he currently does both at Ohio State University.
View our impact from our first 10 years.
By 2033 (our next 10yr stretch), our work to convene champions for this cause will enrich the lives of over 500,000 children.