The Junior League of Denver (JLD) is excited to announce the merger of Read2Kids and Kids Connect for the 2026-27 League year!

Combining these two signature programs will allow our volunteers to impact even more children and families in our continued goal to make reading fun for the whole family, a key factor in a young learner’s success. Through these programs, we have helped make life-long literacy a reality in the lives of thousands of children and families across metro Denver.

Since 2000, JLD volunteers with Read2Kids have teamed up with local schools to encourage reading while making it fun. As part of Kids Connect, volunteers will continue the work of Read2Kids by distributing free books to Title I Schools. These schools may also receive funds for refreshments, craft materials, and entertainment for participants of this “book fair” style event. In addition, Kids Connect will continue its partnership with Joe Shoemaker School.

Through quarterly events, the more in-depth programming provided to this partner school aims to educate and nurture children and families by focusing on early childhood brain development through the combination of reading, art, and music. Each event focuses on a favorite children’s storybook, which will shape the theme for the reading, art and music activities for that event. Participants receive a copy of the storybook and a take-home bag with suggested activities to further inspire.

Questions? Email kidsconnect@jld.org.