Two years ago, Athletes for Education (AFE) formed an exciting partnership with KPBS Raising Readers to launch a joint initiative focused on the importance of early literacy.

Through AFE’s efforts, Kassim Osgood and Luis Castillo came on board to star in two Raising Readers television spots in English—and Spanish—that aired on KPBS television for nearly 6 months.  The spots effectively showed families how learning can take place anywhere and anytime and in very simple ways!  The success of these spots led to the two organizations joining forces again.  This time to create Charge Ahead, an exciting children’s book!

Children in a third grade class at Sunset Elementary drew the colorful illustrations. Children’s book author Clare Hodgson Meeker spent time interviewing  Steve Gregory, Luis Castillo, Kassim Osgood, Jeromey Clary, Tra Battle and Jacques Cesaire and created a story that truly connects with the  Charger players’ goals and values, Meeker spent time.  The outcome is a cleverly-rhymed storyline that weaves together important lessons--teamwork, education and friendship—with whimsical illustration and appealing photos of the Charger players.

“I so enjoyed  chatting with each of the players, they have so much to say and they are so genuine and passionate about helpin g children strive for their best, whether reading or on the playing field.” –Clare Hodgson Meeker, Charge Ahead author

To officially launch the book and celebrate the completion of the project, KPBS hosted a special event with Elmo, direct from Sesame Street, at the San Diego Hall of Champions on December 8, 2009. Over 250 guests, including educators, community leaders, service organizations, KPBS and AFE stakeholders and families, were in attendance, all of whom received a copy of Charge Ahead. The show kicked off with a bang as the USA Jump Stars and Lincoln High School band. KPBS General Manager Tom Karlo, San Diego Medical Director Dr. James Dunford and SDSU Dean of Education Ric Hovda inspired guests to read and make healthy decisions.

“Reading is not only fundamental, but reading is fun! It brings you new experiences, helps you learn about things and it takes you to places you didn’t know you could go.” – SDSU Dean of Education, Ric Hovda

The audience was thrilled as Steve Gregory and Kassim Osgood took the stage and invited their special friend, Elmo, to join them! The three discussed what fun it is to read and play games together and Steve and Kassim even read a bit Charge Ahead to Elmo. When Elmo had to leave for the zoo, Luis Castillo jumped on stage to help the guys finish the book. The players captivated the audience with this special story time treat.  It was a night of celebration, reading and fun!

AFE and KPBS’ joint mission to spread the word about literacy continues on! Both organizations now plan to distribute the book through literacy-based programs in schools, libraries and service organizations throughout San Diego.  And stay tuned for a possible second edition of Charge Ahead!

AFE & KPBS Children's Book Kick-off Celebration