Kansas City, MO — April 2, 2026 — Lead to Read KC will host its annual Reading Rally on Thursday, April 2 from 10:30–11:30 a.m. at the T-Mobile Center, bringing together approximately 3,000 students from 30 schools across the Kansas City metro for a high-energy celebration of literacy.
A highlight of the event will feature Patrick Mahomes reading aloud to students and sharing how reading has influenced his success, reinforcing the importance of literacy both on and off the field. Students will also enjoy appearances from a drumline, cheerleaders, KC Wolf, and a featured local author, creating an engaging and memorable experience centered on the joy of reading.
The Reading Rally serves as the culminating event of Lead to Read KC’s year-long Read for 15 partnership with the 15 and the Mahomies Foundation, which encourages students to build strong reading habits through consistent engagement. The Reading Rally is made possible through the partnership with 15 and the Mahomies Foundation and the generous support of Kiewit.
“Reading is foundational to everything we want for our students and our city,” said Rhea M. LeGrande, Executive Director of Lead to Read KC. “This event is about joy, community, and showing students that Kansas City and KC’s own Chiefs hero, Patrick Mahomes, is behind them as readers.”
Lead to Read KC mobilizes thousands of volunteers to read one-on-one with elementary students each week, helping build confidence, literacy skills, and a lifelong love of reading.
15 and the Mahomies dedicated to improving the lives of children. The Foundation supports initiatives that focus on health, wellness, communities in need of resources and other charitable causes.
Media Information
Members of the media are invited to attend.
- Arrival Window for Interviews: 9:30–10:15 a.m.
- Program Time: 10:30–11:30 a.m.
- Interview Availability:
- Rhea LeGrande available 9:30 – 10:15 a.m.
- Limited availability during the on stage portion of the event (10:30–11:00 a.m.)
- Available again after 11:00 a.m. (can step out briefly as needed)
Media Setup: Media may set up in the Lobby or Concourse for interviews as desired and the section marked “VIP” behind Section 117, or sections nearby to record the program portion
Event Location
T-Mobile Center
1407 Grand Blvd
Kansas City, MO
About Lead to Read KC
Lead to Read KC mobilizes the community to solve the literacy crisis by connecting students with reading mentors, tutoring, and access to books. Serving more than 30 schools across the Kansas City metro, the organization provides weekly one-on-one reading support to elementary students, helping build the skills and confidence they need to succeed.