Lead to Read
Hadley and Hayden Bashein
Background
Lead to Read began with two students, a simple idea, and a desire to make a difference.
In May 2025, Hayden Bashein (Sophomore) and Hadley Bashein (Freshman) from Gilmour Academy continued a journey that started in 2019 with Cleveland Kids’ Book Bank through their mother, Amy. They came on-site with a group of students to build bookshelves, but what they built was something much bigger.
The siblings organized a book drive at their church and collected more than 2,000 children’s books. The experience opened their eyes to both the need for book access—and the power students have to meet that need.
Inspired to do more, Hadley and Hayden continued building momentum, collecting another 2,500 books, raising $3,000 from a personal fundraising campaign, and hosting a waffle bar book sorting event at the Kids’ Book Bank to enourage volunteering.
Their work inspired theis launched of Lead to Read, a replicable model where students cancould take ownership, build leadership skills, and create meaningful, measurable impact in their communities through book drives, fundraisers, and volunteering.
What is Lead to Read?
Lead to Read is a structured, student-led leadership and service program that empowers middle and high school students to make a meaningful impact in their communities while earning service hours.
Through Lead to Read, students can:
- Lead community book drives
- Volunteer at the Kids’ Book Bank
- Conduct personal fundraising campaigns
- Build skills in networking, outreach, and leadership
- Expand the impact of book access for children across Northeast Ohio
Students can participate to meet service requirements while building character, leadership experience, and a strong resume.
How to Participate
Download our how-to guide for all things Lead to Read! You’ll find information about running a book drive, organizing a fundraiser, and volunteering.
Some important notes: Be sure to engage an adult in supervising your book fair, so that person can sign off on your hours. When you volunteer at the Kids’ Book Bank, we can sign/confirm your hours for you. If you have questions at any time, please email us at info@kidsbookbank.org.