KPMG Friends & Family for Literacy: Shaping Futures Together

Why It Matters

Early literacy drives academic success and future workforce readiness; KPMG's initiative directly addresses systemic gaps while enhancing its brand as a community leader.

Key Takeaways

• 64% of fourth graders lack proficient reading skills nationwide
• Low‑income students face 80% reading proficiency gap nationwide
• KPMG mobilizes volunteers to support First Book literacy initiatives
• Volunteers provide books, mentorship, and resources to Title‑I schools
• Literacy programs aim to boost confidence, curiosity, future workforce

Summary

The video showcases KPMG Friends & Family for Literacy (KFL), a partnership with First Book aimed at tackling the U.S. reading‑proficiency crisis in elementary schools.

Data points reveal that 64% of all fourth‑graders are not reading proficiently, rising to 80% among low‑income students. KFL channels KPMG professionals, clients, and families to donate books, run reading sessions, mentor students, and equip under‑resourced Title‑I classrooms with new materials.

A poignant moment is captured when a student says, “I want this book; it looks like me,” underscoring the personal impact of representation. The speaker also notes a personal connection to education and mentions the program’s kangaroo mascot, highlighting both emotional and brand elements.

By improving early literacy, KFL seeks to close achievement gaps, foster confidence and curiosity, and ultimately build a pipeline of future talent for KPMG and the broader economy, reinforcing the firm’s corporate‑social‑responsibility leadership.