The Cincinnati Bengals announced a new community partnership with the Queen City Book Bank aimed at expanding childhood literacy across the city. The collaboration focuses on getting more books into the hands of students, especially those attending Hays‑Porter Elementary School.
Players deliver books to local school
In a hands‑on visit to Hays‑Porter, several Bengals players handed out books to eager students. Tight end Jack Endries, wide receiver Dohnte Meyers, defensive end Cedric Johnson and long snapper William Wagner were among the athletes on the floor, sharing stories about the importance of reading and encouraging kids to keep learning both on and off the field.
Community‑engagement message
“Football is all about putting your team in the best position to succeed,” said Taylor Conklin, the Bengals’ director of community engagement. “We see that same opportunity when it comes to youth in our community. We want to help kids win on and off the field this season. Putting a great book in their hands helps them score a few extra touchdowns in the classroom. We are proud to partner with Queen City Book Bank and Hays‑Porter to make a difference one book at a time.”
The partnership’s goal is simple: ensure that children have consistent access to books and the ability to build home libraries. By delivering books directly to classrooms and families, the Bengals and the Book Bank hope to foster a love of reading that will translate into stronger academic performance and lifelong learning habits.
Why literacy matters to families
For many families in Cincinnati, especially those in underserved neighborhoods, access to quality reading material can be limited. The Queen City Book Bank, a nonprofit dedicated to collecting, sorting, and distributing books, works to fill that gap. The Bengals’ involvement brings additional visibility and resources, reinforcing the message that strong families and strong communities begin with education.
Local parents expressed appreciation for the initiative. One mother noted, “When my child brings home a new book, it feels like a small victory for our whole family. Seeing the Bengals support this makes it even more special.” The sentiment reflects the broader community belief that faith, family and personal responsibility are the foundations of a thriving neighborhood.
Looking ahead
Both the Bengals organization and the Queen City Book Bank plan to continue the effort throughout the school year, with additional book drives, reading events and volunteer opportunities for players and staff. The partnership underscores the team’s commitment to giving back to the city that supports them, aligning with the values of faith, family and individual liberty that many Cincinnati residents hold dear.
As the season progresses, the Bengals hope the literacy program will serve as a model for other professional sports teams seeking to make a positive impact in their own communities.
Original reporting: WLWT Cincinnati — read the source article.
