Impact | Leaven Kids

We fight for change right where kids live.

At Leaven Kids, we believe real change begins with children. By planting safe, consistent learning centers in the heart of struggling neighborhoods, we break the cycle of poverty, inspire lifelong learning, and spark transformation that reaches entire communities.

Academic Growth

Hope looks like progress you can measure.

 We target the areas where students fall behind most, literacy, math, and science, through daily tutoring and mentoring. Kids in grades K–5 gain consistent, meaningful interactions with caring staff and volunteers who believe in them. These relationships open new life paths and fuel the confidence to succeed.

83%

Improvement in
Language

90%

Grow in Positive
Self-Esteem

81%

Improvement in
Reading Comprehension

73%

Increase in Health
& Nutrition knowledge

84%

Improvement in
Mathematics

80%

Build stronger
Self-Awareness

Mentoring & Community

Consistency creates transformation.

 When children see caring adults show up day after day, it changes everything. Our centers not only nurture kids, they also inspire parents and neighbors to invest in their community. As pride and morale rise, crime rates fall, and children begin to envision a future filled with possibilities.

Crime Reduction

Stronger kids mean safer neighborhoods.

Leaven Kids is more than good intentions; we’re a long-term presence that builds trust, strengthens families, and partners with schools, law enforcement, and local organizations. Change takes time, but our consistency pays off. In neighborhoods with a Leaven Kids center, crime drops by an average of 53%.

FINANCIAL RESPONSIBILITY

Trust is our foundation, and we guard it fiercely.

At Leaven Kids, we know every gift of time or money comes with an expectation: that we will deliver on our promise to transform kids’ lives and strengthen communities. Integrity, honesty, and accountability aren’t just policies for us; they are the way we fight for change and care for those who believe in our mission.

Independent Oversight

Independent Board: Our board members are community leaders, not employees, and serve without compensation or conflicts of interest.
Fiduciary Duty: They hold a position of trust on behalf of donors, grantors, and partners, safeguarding the assets of Leaven Kids.

Stewardship of Resources

Local Impact: Donations stay where they are given. Each region funds its own programs, and center-specific gifts are used only for that center.
Annual Audit: An independent auditor reviews our financials every year and publishes findings for full transparency.
IRS 990: We file and share our 990 annually as a public record of our financial health and policies.
Use of Funds: 75 cents of every dollar goes directly to programs that serve children; the remaining 25 cents ensures strong administration and sustainable growth.
Reserves: We maintain a modest reserve fund to meet obligations in times of financial uncertainty, without withholding resources meant for kids.

Accountability in Action

Educational Review: Local educators regularly review our programs to ensure students are gaining ground in the classroom.
Grant Reporting: We meet and exceed reporting requirements, showing donors and grantors the measurable impact of their investment.
Open Doors: Donors are always welcome to visit a center and see their generosity in action.

Safety & Confidentiality

Rigorous Training: New site directors undergo extensive training and mentorship before leading a center.
Volunteer Screening: Every volunteer passes a law-enforcement background check before serving.
Secure Centers: Each site is safeguarded to protect children and property.
Privacy Protected: Children’s names, photos, and stories are never shared without consent and protection of identity.
Donor Confidentiality: We safeguard the personal information of every donor and volunteer.