In 2011 the Nehemiah Network, a group of church pastors and business leaders, launched a reading initiative. Community leaders endorsed this initiative and supported transitioning it to a community-based nonprofit.

As a result, AR Kids Read was founded in 2012. AKR programs are designed to meet the needs of at-risk students by focusing on creative, collaborative approaches that bring all the resources of a community together. With the power of volunteers, college students, and numerous program partners, AKR encourages and equips students to reach their full potential. They help them build valuable literacy skills and gain academic confidence.