Literacy. Leadership. Legacy.
In classrooms, libraries, and living rooms across St. Louis, Black men show up to read, tutor, and listen. Children see themselves in the story — and in the person telling it.
Our Story
“Showing up consistently for young people matters.”
Black Men Read began as a virtual book club among friends. After the loss of Keyon's brother, Damon, in 2022, it grew into something deeper — a mission rooted in community responsibility, healing, and legacy.
What began with classroom readings has become a community-centered movement: literacy engagement, Science of Reading-aligned tutoring, mentorship, and wellness-focused conversation for men.
The aim is simple and stubborn. Children should not only learn to read — they should believe in their own potential.
Our mission
To inspire a lifelong love of reading by expanding access to literacy, mentorship, and community-centered experiences that empower students, strengthen families, and build future leaders.
What We Do
From a first read-aloud to a monthly circle for men, each program is its own kind of room.
01 — Reading. Confidence. Growth.
A school-partnered tutoring and mentorship program helping students strengthen reading skills through Science of Reading-informed support.
For: Students in grades K–5 at partner schools
Explore Brothers Building Brilliance
02 — Reading. Connection. Confidence.
Volunteer readers in elementary classrooms, sharing stories so students can see themselves in books.
For: K–5 classrooms across Greater St. Louis
Explore Page Turners
03 — Stories. Presence. Connection.
A community storytime for fathers, father figures, and children, built around reading, bonding, and intentional time together.
For: Fathers, father figures, and their little ones
Explore Dad Storytime
04 — Truth. Accountability. Listening. Kinship.
A therapist-guided dialogue circle for men 18+ focused on connection, accountability, mental wellness, and community.
For: Men 18+ in Illinois and Missouri
Explore Black Men Talk
05 — Stories in Sync. Impact in Motion.
Free author conversations and book signings, hosted twice a year with the St. Louis Public Library.
For: Youth, families, and readers of every age
Explore Voices in TandemOur Impact
Figures as published by Black Men Read.
In their words
Stories from students, families, and volunteers are being gathered with their permission.
Have a Black Men Read story to share? Tell us.
Alongside
Readers, tutors, educators, fathers, and friends. This is what showing up looks like.
Be Part of It
You don't need to be an expert. You need to show up. Pick the way that fits your life.
What's Happening
The next chapter is being planned.
No new dates are confirmed yet. Voices in Tandem is held twice a year with the St. Louis Public Library, and Black Men Talk meets monthly — ask to hear about the next dates.
Recently
Voices in Tandem: A Black Men Read Author Experience
1:00–4:00 PM · Schlafly Library
An afternoon of storytelling, authorship, and community featuring Black voices shaping culture through literacy.
Black Men T.A.L.K.
In partnership with Changes Therapy and sponsored by 100 Black Men of Metropolitan St. Louis.
Black Men T.A.L.K.
In partnership with Changes Therapy and sponsored by 100 Black Men of Metropolitan St. Louis.
