Community Need

Why Literacy and Representation Matter

The Problem

Across the United States, millions of children are growing up without access to books that reflect their lives, cultures, and communities. According to the Cooperative Children’s Book Center, fewer than 15% of children’s books feature Black, Hispanic, or Indigenous characters—and in many classrooms, diverse books are rarely available.

This lack of representation contributes to a wider literacy gap, especially among children in underserved and low-income communities. When children can’t see themselves in stories, they often disengage from reading altogether, affecting confidence, academic success, and long-term outcomes.

The Local Impact

In Texas and across North Texas communities, literacy scores remain below national averages. Many elementary schools—particularly in low-income neighborhoods—lack the funding and resources to provide students with diverse, high-quality reading materials.

Without access to inclusive stories, children miss out on more than reading skills—they miss the chance to feel seen, inspired, and empowered to dream beyond their circumstances.

Our Response

Teens Reaching Teens, Inc. exists to close this gap.

Through our partnership with Lil’ Marco and Friends, LLC, we bring diverse books, literacy kits, and educational programs directly into schools, libraries, and community centers. Our initiatives help children connect with reading early, foster positive self-esteem, and strengthen their sense of identity and belonging.

From book donations to creative writing workshops, every program is designed to build a bridge between representation and opportunity.

1 in 3 U.S. fourth graders read below grade level.
Only 15% of children’s books feature Black, Hispanic, or Indigenous characters.
Texas ranks below the national average in 4th-grade reading proficiency.
Representation matters — when kids see themselves in stories, reading engagement doubles.

Together, we can change the story.

When you support Teens Reaching Teens, Inc., you’re helping us put diverse, meaningful books into the hands of children who need them most—and ensuring every young reader feels seen, valued, and inspired to dream big.

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