A Blueprint for Hope.
Right Here in the Tri-Cities.
Only 33% of children nationwide reach grade-level reading by third grade. But over 90% of Coalition kids do.
Because of supporters like you, bleak numbers turn into bright futures. Watch how Coalition For Kids is proving that with consistent care, at-risk children can thrive.
3rd-Grade Reading:
A Turning Point for Life
Falling behind in reading isn't just an academic hurdle. It reshapes an entire future.
2/3 of students who cannot read proficiently by the end of 3rd grade will end up on welfare or in prison.
7 Years
shorter life expectancy
$1 million
lower earnings over lifetime
22x
less likely to attend college
23x
more likely to struggle with addiction
2/3 of students who cannot read proficiently by the end of 4th grade will end up on welfare or in prison.
The Coalition For Kids Story
The Choice: Wall vs. Playground
Twenty-five years ago, a small church faced a crossroads. Build a wall to keep disruptive neighborhood kids out—or open their doors wider. They chose welcome. That simple act of love sparked a movement that’s changed thousands of children’s lives.
"I will never be a babysitting service. We're here to change lives."
Randy Hensley, Founder
"I will never be a babysitting service. We're here to change lives."
Randy Hensley, Founder
The Granny's House Model
Every afternoon, kids walk through our doors into safety and belonging. They share a hot meal, get homework help, and hear the words every child deserves: “You matter.”
"The Coalition was my home. It's where I learned that I mattered."
Former Coalition Student
Healthy Snack
Nutritious food to fuel learning
Homework Help
One-on-one tutoring and academic support
Hot Meal
Family-style dinner served daily
Play & Connection
Safe space for friendship, growth, and joy
Proof Under Pressure
When the world stopped in 2020, we didn't. When families needed us most, we showed up.
8,000+
meals delivered
during the pandemic
during the pandemic
11-Hour
virtual Learning Hub
built when schools closed
built when schools closed
300%
growth in impact
from 250 to 1,000+ kids served
from 250 to 1,000+ kids served
90%+
reading proficiency
by third grade
by third grade
Trusted by Leaders Across Tennessee
Our impact has caught the attention of those who know what real change looks like.
"Right in our back door in Johnson City is a program that literally can change the world."
Dr. Maureen Mulroy
National Program Evaluator & Former U.S. Department of Education
Proud Partners In Change
Johnson City Schools
ETSU
United Way
Community Foundation
State of Tennessee
Why This Matters Nationally
C4K proves what’s possible in the communities that need hope the most. If this model can thrive here, it can thrive anywhere.
Under $20k household income
Under $10k household income
Reading at grade level
by 3rd grade
by 3rd grade
From Local Impact to National Blueprint
Because of supporters like you, kids in our own community are reading, thriving, and graduating. And that success is more than a local win—it’s a model others can follow. When you give here at home, you help prove what’s possible anywhere.
You Can Rewrite a Child’s Future
Small acts of generosity create life-changing opportunities.
Give Today
Your tax-deductible donation makes a difference.
