About - Comics Appreciation Project

the Comics appreciation project

We're on a mission to break down barriers to literacy.

The problem in numbers

70%

Almost 70% of low-income fourth grade students cannot read at a basic level.

49%

49% of eighth graders eligible for free and reduced-price meals finished below "Basic" on the NAEP reading test.

We're rewriting the story

CAP is dedicated to transforming children’s experiences and beliefs about reading through programs that use visual storytelling.

Research shows that comics and graphic novels significantly enhance reading retention, comprehension, engagement, and self perception for young readers.

For students that struggle to read, an unconventional medium offers an opportunity to revitalize their literacy capabilities. CAP aims to harness the benefits of reading graphic novels for children’s literacy, and through our programs we demonstrate the limitless value of graphic novels as a storytelling medium.

Our Guiding Goals

Support Youth Literacy

Assist schools, local libraries, hospitals, and foster care with programming resources, book donations, instructor lessons, reading guides, and more.

Demonstrate the value of graphic storytelling

Work with local comic stores, novel vendors, librarians, and educators to spread messaging about the history and importance of graphic novels and comic books.

inspire future storytellers

Use literacy and graphic storytelling to show kids everywhere that stories have power, and that in turn, the stories of themselves can make change.

"Comics Appreciation Project is a unique non-profit with a clear mission, capable and respectable leadership, and a foundation of good stewardship. Proud to be an early supporter of this non-profit, and excited to see how it continues to grow with time. A true passion for comics and for kids is at the heart of CAP, and with that, they can’t go wrong."

"Thanks Jason Kelley for your vision to provide children in foster care with books they can relate to. Foster children of Northeast Georgia have benefitted from the comic books. They are relatable and entertaining. The foster care system appreciates your donations and look forward to future reads. Thanks again for all you do."

"The Comics Appreciation Project has worked with our Annual Heroes Convention for a couple of years now. They are a wonderful group working to enrich the lives of foster children and children under medical care. They donate their time and money to making the world a better place for children from all situations and circumstances."

Curious about how we do it?

About the founder

Jason Kelley’s grandfather used to call him and ask, “Are you still reading those funnybooks?” Now, more so than ever, the answer remains: “Yes. Yes I am.”

In 2022, Jason combined his lifelong interest in comics and graphic novels with his passion for community aid, and The Comics Appreciation Project was born. The fusion of a love of reading and the drive to empower kids everywhere through literacy drives CAP to keep spreading stories worth sharing.