Be the reason they read.

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Our Approach

Giving Children Hope’s Reading Program helps Pre-K to 8th grade students increase their literacy by recognizing and rewarding them for their progress throughout the school year.

 

The program focuses on growth in student literacy scores, using STAR assessment data administered throughout the year to measure progress and identify student achievement.

In addition to rewarding students for reaching a specific proficiency level, the program celebrates individual growth, allowing students at different starting points to be recognized for the progress they make toward grade level reading proficiency.


Reading logs and other literacy activities may be incorporated to encourage consistent reading habits and engagement at home. These serve as a supporting component of the program rather than the primary measure of success.

Through incentives and recognition tied to measurable literacy growth, Giving Children Hope aims to motivate students, reinforce positive reading habits, and support schools and families in building stronger, more confident readers.

Reading is Critical

Reading proficiency by 3rd grade is critical to a child’s long-term success

  • 4x more likely to graduate high school.

  • HS graduates earn 30% more pay and have

  • 50% better job security.

The Challenge

In under-resourced schools:

  • Only 35% of kids read at grade level

  • 65% of kids are left behind

The GCH Reading Program is a pilot initiative that uses toys to encourage kids to increase their reading proficiency by reading more. Early, limited results include:

  • 750% increase in kids turning in reading logs

  • 250% increase in kids completing a 21-book summer reading challenge

  • 45% increase in kids signing up for summer reading

Our Partners

  • Marine Corps Toys4Tots

  • Anaheim Elementary School District

  • Anaheim Public Library

  • Jazwares

  • "Many children made it their goal to read at least 40 books (ages 0-4) or 800 minutes (ages 5-12) so that they could receive one of the toys. When they learned that they could earn a second toy for completing the program with 80 books or 1600 minutes read, they were over the moon! The toys encouraged the children to strive for and reach goals they might not have otherwise reached."

    —Anaheim Public Library

  • "Students are excited about the toys. They are cheering and jumping up and down. Students smile and run to show the new toy to their families. Some students hug the toys. Parents and grandparents are grateful and express gratitude for the toys. Even our middle school volunteers who support our events are excited about the toys and ask if they can have one too. The toys are working as an incentive. Thank you!"

    —Manuel Esqueda TK-8th Grade

  • "Many students shared their enthusiasm, saying they were motivated to work hard and continue modeling our expectations. The students were overjoyed—shouting with excitement not only when selecting something for themselves, but also when seeing their classmates choose items they wanted. It was a wonderful reminder of how positive reinforcement can bring happiness and build community among our students."

    —Howard J. McKibben Elementary

  • "One parent told me that her child was completely disinterested in reading before the program began. When they signed up and saw what options they had for prizes, including the ones from Giving Children Hope, the parent saw a complete switch in their child over the summer. They said their kid was constantly reading and not just getting simple books full of pictures but longer chapter books."

    —Anaheim Public Library

  • "Resource Center staff noticed how quickly the toys became part of their play and creativity during camp; there was so much laughter, sharing, and even teamwork as they shared their new toys and games with each other. What stood out most was how something as simple as a toy boosted their confidence and sense of belonging. It was a reminder that these small gestures can make a lasting impact."

    —Project Access

  • "I observed that students are highly motivated and excited to work toward incentives, and they often express gratitude for these opportunities. Families show visible pride in their children’s accomplishments, which creates a joyful and supportive atmosphere. As a school, we are proud to provide these meaningful experiences that not only celebrate academic growth but also strengthen relationships within our community."

    —Sycamore Magnet Academy

Be the reason they read today.

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