Today, we’d like to introduce you to Leroy Kelson . Leroy was introduced to us by the brilliant and talented Sandy Collier.
Leroy , can you walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
My journey started in Riviera Beach, a small South Florida city, where my love for reading was ignited alongside my involvement in organized sports. After earning my degree in Public Administration from the University of Louisville and a Master’s in Business with a concentration in Sports Management from the University of San Francisco, I felt a calling to make a difference in elementary education. Pursuing a second graduate degree in Educational Leadership solidified my commitment. The inspiration to establish The Grow Lit Project stemmed from my hands-on experiences in both the community and the classroom, witnessing educational disparities that fueled my passion to empower young children in marginalized communities.
We’ve heard great things about your organization. For our readers who might not be as familiar, can you please tell them about the organization?
The Grow Lit Project, a 501c3 organization based in Palm Beach County, is dedicated to enhancing literacy rates among children aged K-5 in marginalized communities. What sets us apart is our holistic approach, combining educational initiatives with community engagement. We provide targeted literacy programs, mentorship, and resources to empower young learners. Our pride lies in fostering a love for reading and education, bridging the gap in opportunities for these children. The Grow Lit Project stands out for its commitment to addressing educational disparities through a comprehensive and community-driven approach. We aim to marry young children to book reading opportunities by building in home libraries, hosting community sponsored book fairs, and educating parents on testing strategies that empower students to overcome reading inequality
Sandy Collier and Hey, Sandy! PR & Communications have been great to us and I know you’ve got a great relationship with them as well. Maybe you can tell our audience a bit about Sandy Collier and Hey, Sandy! PR & Communications and your experience with them.
Hey, Sandy PR thrives on strategic media relationships and a deep understanding of the service-oriented goals of organizations. Our effectiveness lies in identifying opportunities to elevate our clients, especially those focused on meaningful initiatives like improving education for young children.
Sandy prioritizes building genuine connections with media outlets, ensuring that the core mission and impact of our agency is effectively communicated. Her personalized approach and commitment to understanding the unique nature of what we need and being able to deliver stellar representation makes her the best.
Most impactful event for your brand:**
One of the most impactful events for Hey, Sandy! PR was our Annual fundraising Gala that highlighted the Grow Lit Project’s achievements. Sandy’s strategic planning and media outreach significantly increased awareness, attracting valuable attention to Leroy’s organization and its mission. She secured the talents of Award Winning Actor Omari Hardwick yielding a stellar round out event for that allowed us to raise funds to further our cause
Hey, Sandy! PR is more than a service; it’s a partner in amplifying our mission. Sandy’s expertise has been instrumental in bringing attention to the Grow Lit Project, ensuring that our message reaches a broader audience.
2. **Tell us about the Grow Lit Project:**
The Grow Lit Project is a 501c3 organization in Palm Beach County dedicated to improving literacy rates in children from marginalized communities. Through targeted programs, mentorship, and community engagement, we aim to empower young learners, bridging educational disparities.
3. **Why are you passionate about the Grow Lit Project?**
My passion for the Grow Lit Project stems from personal experiences growing up in Riviera Beach. My mother had me when she was 15. It was her stoicism and insistsnce on me getting an education and developing a love for reading tnat made the difference for me. I witnessed educational disparities daily and wanted to make a difference in eliminating them. The Grow Lit Project allows me to channel that passion into concrete initiatives, providing young children with the opportunities and resources they deserve.
Website: https:/www.growlitproject.org
Instagram: @growlitproject
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100086171569391
Image Credits
Ladi March-Goldwire Omari Hardwick Leroy Kelson IV, Grow Lit Founder
