A 15-year-old local advocate is taking a direct approach to addressing literacy challenges among youth in her community.
Kendyl Drisker has established Story Time with Kendyl, a youth-led program designed to foster early reading skills, self-assurance, and creative expression in young children. The program is set to launch on Saturday, May 2, at Hilltop Park in Richmond.
From 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., families can participate in an environment that prioritizes cognitive development and imagination. Alongside the storytelling sessions with Kendyl, the event features a Dip and Paint activity station, which allows children to explore artistic self-expression. The activities are intended to provide underserved communities with access to quality literacy resources and mentorship.
Story Time with Kendyl is hosted by Keyz 2 The Future, a Richmond-based nonprofit founded in 2022.
“Kendyl represents what youth leadership truly looks like at 15 in my opinion as the executive director of Keyz 2 The Future,” said Keycha Gallon. “Kendyl has made a conscious decision to step up and address a real issue impacting her peers and younger generations. She is not just reading to children—she is helping shape their confidence, imagination, and future.”
Interested participants can find further details regarding the launch and future sessions by visiting keyz2thefuture.org or following the organization’s social media platforms.
