LITERACY

"Many of us assume reading is just something you do. You grow up, learn how to read, and everybody’s a decent reader, but it’s not like that. The number of people who are illiterate or have low literacy is surprising." - Erik Jones

Literacy Program Overview

Literacy is crucial in America as it empowers individuals to access information, participate fully in society, and pursue opportunities for personal and professional growth. It serves as a cornerstone for education, democracy, and economic development, pivotal in shaping the nation's future. The Erik Jones Foundation supports literacy in several ways.

At Track Readings

There is no more rewarding experience than engaging directly with young fans at one of the dozens of racetracks the NASCAR Cup Series races at annually.

EJF partners with NASCAR and track owners to present children's book reading to fans and families at the racetracks.

Online Readings

There is no question about it: one of the challenges with getting kids excited about reading books is that they are inundated with technology, social media, etc.

Our online reading program embraces that reality and encourages kids to join Erik online twice a month to slow down and enjoy a good book. In addition to reading books, Erik offers reading tips for kids and parents.

Our online reading program has wildly succeeded in viewership with over ……… readings. Fans are encouraged to submit their suggestions for a book for Erik to read.

Special event readings and vending machine giveaways

Erik will appear at schools, libraries, and other organizations throughout the race season to get kids excited about reading. During these events, Erik reads with the kids and is available for questions and answers with the children.

During some of these live appearances, the Erik Jones Foundation has partnered with the Global Vending Group to provide Inchy the Book Worm Vending Machines schools.

These vending machines are used to reinforce the positive academic and social behavior of children while helping to build the home library of children.

How do the vending machines work?

The Erik Jones Foundation partners with a local organization to develop a sustainable plan to place one of the machines in a school, library, etc. Once the machine is in the school, teachers award kids “golden coins” for exhibiting positive behaviors in and out of the classroom. Those tokens are then redeemed for a book from the vending machine. The books are free to the kids.

We Would Love to Hear From You

Your thoughts and suggestions are important to us. Feel free to contact our team for assistance or to share your ideas on how we can better serve our mission.