History of WCI

Wichita Collective Impact is the result of a simple commitment: to do better for the next generation.

Wichita Collective Impact is the result of a simple commitment: to do better for the next generation.

That commitment means moving from acting independently to working together to create systems of change. Systemic change means collaborating to improve literacy outcomes for the next generation. It means setting shared goals, using shared measurements, and embracing a shared vision to make a positive impact on our kids.

  • set shared goals

  • use shared measurements

  • embrace a shared vision

  • make a positive impact

Measureable outcomes ​

We Strive For Greater Impact on Literacy

We Strive For Greater Impact on Literacy

Together, Wichita can make a greater impact on literacy than individual organizations working alone. But acting together requires change. Change in coordination, change in behavior, change in accountability, and change rooted in clear intentions for measurable outcomes for our kids.

Meet our amazing team

We are passionate to help our kids be ready for school and reading by 3rd grade for a better future for them and for our community.

Bringing organizations and the community together

Partnerships & Collaborations

Through a significant investment by Cargill, and with leadership from the Greater Wichita YMCA and Wichita State’s Public Policy and Management Center, this work began in 2022 with the goal of improving educational and economic outcomes. Schools in the 67214 zip code became the launch point, bringing organizations and the community together.

Wichita Public Schools’ strategic goals were the central focus, offering the greatest opportunity to impact our kids. The initial priorities (third-grade literacy and kindergarten readiness) serve as strategic initiatives to change the trajectory for the future.

In the past few years, this commitment has led to investments numerous of programming and community resources. In addition, dozens of organizations have joined the effort, each exploring how they can advance kindergarten readiness and third-grade reading in Wichita.

  • Summer education to address learning loss

  • Development of a school-based model for community engagement and literacy programming

  • Creation of community resources to address barriers to education

Building the Future – Excellence Partnerships

Together, Wichita can make a greater impact on literacy than individual organizations working alone.

Summer Education

Investment in summer education to address learning loss

Literacy Programming

Development of a school-based model for community engagement and literacy programming

Community Resources

Creation of community resources to address barriers to education

Kindergarten Readiness

Improvement of educational and economic outcomes for kindergarten to third-graders