How to help Birmingham kids love reading + learning—expert Q+A

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Learning to read is one of the most important milestones in a child’s life, yet many students struggle to get the support they need. A local literacy organization called STAIR is helping change that—giving Birmingham kids the tools, encouragement and confidence to discover the joy of reading and believe in themselves.

I sat down with Katy Galloway, Director of Development for STAIR of Birmingham, to talk about why this work matters and why child literacy is a cause you’ll be glad to get behind.

Read on for our Q&A with Galloway and learn how you can support our city’s youngest readers through the Rise to Read Breakfast at The Fennec on April 9.

Q&A with Katy Galloway, Director of Development at STAIR of Birmingham

Q: How can early reading struggles affect a child?

Katy Galloway: “Reading really is the foundation for everything that comes after it. There’s a pivotal shift around third grade. Up until then, kids are learning to read, but after, they’re reading to learn. Without solid skills, gaps widen across every subject.”

That’s why STAIR of Birmingham focuses on first-, second- and third-graders, giving them multiple years to gain confidence and skills. When kids believe in themselves as readers, they participate more, retain more and enjoy learning.

Q: What difference does a tutor make?

Katy Galloway: “It’s really special. Kids get excited to come to tutoring because they know someone is consistently in their corner. Over time, tutors learn what engages each student and what makes them light up. That connection makes all the difference.”

Q: How does confidence in reading show up at school and home?

Katy Galloway: “Confident readers participate more in class, which helps them learn even more. At home, they often share what they’ve learned with siblings, reading together and practicing skills. One child’s growth can ripple through the whole family.”

Q: Why is local support so important?

Katy Galloway: “Birmingham’s generosity is humbling. Donors allow us to provide tutoring and books free to students. Volunteers are the heart of STAIR, giving their time week after week across 16 area schools. None of this happens without community support.”

Q: What do you hope people take away from this year’s Rise to Read Breakfast?

Last year, STAIR celebrated 25 years of helping Birmingham students shine in reading. (STAIR of Birmingham)

Katy Galloway: “It’s a chance to show the impact of our work, honor volunteers and raise funds to keep it going. I hope people leave proud of what our community has built and inspired to keep helping kids grow into confident readers.”

How you can support STAIR of Birmingham

Now that you have all the feels, STAIR’s annual Rise to Read Breakfast is your chance to celebrate the volunteers, donors and students whose lives are transformed through reading. It’s a morning where you’ll get to see the impact of the program firsthand, hear inspiring stories from the school year and support Birmingham’s youngest readers.

Dr. Mark Sullivan, Birmingham City Schools Superintendent will be the Keynote Speaker.

Whether you attend, sponsor a table or make a donation, every bit of support helps local kids gain confidence and a love of learning.

Event details

• When: Thursday, April 9 | 7:30-9AM
• Where: The Fennec
• Cost: $125
• Tickets
• Parking: FREE at The Fennec + Red Mountain Theatre lots

Be part of STAIR of Birmingham’s impact—help kids gain confidence in reading. Make a donation now.

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