Inspiration for this project was first sparked by the R2L Board to provide continued literacy support and encouragement of reading to Grinnell area young learners as they transition to kindergarten.

Kindergarten Kickoff officially kicked off in 2021 due to the organization and leadership support of the Grinnell Education Partnership AmeriCorps VISTA members.  

Kindergarten Kickoff brings together area businesses and organizations such as Grinnell United Way, Connected PTO, Grinnell-Newburg School Foundation, Grinnell Mutual, Manatt's Inc and Bayer by providing a summer fun themed, literacy focused gift bag to every preschool graduate residing in Poweshiek County or within the community school districts of Grinnell-Newburg, Brooklyn-Guernsey-Malcolm (BGM) or Montezuma. 

The bags are given in celebration of preschool age children graduating from preschool and preparing for kindergarten. Eligible children are given a reusable Read2Lead tote, beach towel, water bottle, teacher recommended, quality children’s books. Additionally packaged in the bags includes items such as bubbles, chalk, crayons, sunglasses and a beach ball that promote outdoor play, imagination and fun.