Each year, Coastal Carolina University (CCU) student-athletes read to kindergarten students across Horry County to teach them a cycle of caring. This program shows the children the importance of early childhood literacy and volunteerism.

Caring for Kindergartners was launched in 2003 by CCU and then Head Football Coach David Bennett. The event was used as a community service project for the CCU football team, where 45 players and coaches descended on area schools to read “Clifford the Big Red Dog” and help students make cards for seniors placed into UWHC’s “Make Someone’s May Day” baskets. Caring for Kindergarten still takes, and now athletes from all 19 varsity sports at CCU participate.

This year’s event was held on Tuesday, February 27, 2024. Almost 100 CCU student-athletes will visit several kindergarten classrooms throughout the county to read A Big Guy Took My Ball by Mo Willems. This book has important lessons about feelings, friendship, and equality, and it is a great way to explain to children that everyone can be friends no matter what size or color.

Check out some pictures from 2024’s Caring for Kindergarteners event!