In 2007, the Cooper Reading Challenge was created by founder Martin M. Cooper, who believes that literacy is the cornerstone of success and a fulfilling life. He created the challenge to inspire children to read and find adventures between the pages of a book.

To be eligible for the reading challenge, Club members read an age-appropriate book and write a report about it or participate in dialogue groups on their reading. Every child who participates gets to visit Barnes & Noble in December and select $25 in books that interest them.

For many of our youngest members, this experience is the first opportunity to visit a bookstore and to purchase a book of their very own. For some of our older members, this is a chance to continue to fuel their love of reading and to reveal the many genres of books that will undoubtedly impact their future lives. All kids show an interest in reading and sharing their thoughts through an extracurricular book report. Fostering this interest in children is an investment worth making!

Reading changes lives

The impact of the pandemic on children has been profound. The isolation and loneliness of the past couple of years created an even greater need for them to enjoy positive experiences and to connect to the world around them. Reading provides that experience and connection.

By supporting the Cooper Reading Challenge, you are investing in our children and in our community. Your generosity will fuel a love of reading for generations to come.

Cooper Reading Challenge

By Boys & Girls Club of the West Valley

Cooper Reading Challenge

"There are many little ways to enlarge your child’s world. Love of books is the best of all." – Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis

Team Members