By Denise Gary
Photographs © Robert Gary
Kids Need to Read has received a $2,000 grant award from the John F. Long Foundation for use in the expansion of “Reading Revolution,” the groundbreaking literacy program for middle school students produced by Kids Need to Read in partnership with Arizona State University and ASU Preparatory Academy, an inner-city charter school serving impoverished children in downtown Phoenix, Arizona. Kids Need to Read and Arizona State University have been working together with educators at ASU Preparatory Academy since 2011 to develop a uniquely interactive three-year program that introduces disadvantaged middle school students to a highly engaging educational experience, while teaching them, first-hand, the impact of reading on every aspect of life. New program curricula are being developed for two additional grade levels this school year, and work is underway for expansion to more schools.
Founded by West Valley philanthropist John F. Long, a highly respected innovator of cost-saving, quality building techniques, John F. Long Foundation is a “non-profit, charitable, Private Foundation established in 1959 by the Long family to support local charities, schools, education events and general community needs.”
Kids Need to Read and Arizona State University sincerely thank John F. Long Foundation for their assistance in funding Reading Revolution for the children of ASU Preparatory Academy and the many others who will be impacted by this program in the future.
Reading Revolution Program Partners
Arizona State University
ASU Preparatory Academy
Reading Revolution Funding Partners
American Woodmark Foundation
Arizona Diamondbacks Foundation
Avnet Contributions Council
Cardinals Charities
Employees Community Fund of Boeing Arizona
Fry’s Fund
John F. Long Foundation
National Home Library Foundation
Otto & Edna Neely Foundation
Walmart Foundation
Weyerhaeuser Giving Fund
