Who we are
Teens Reaching Teens, Inc. is an independent North Texas 501(c)(3) nonprofit founded in October 2000. We help young people find their voice through reading, writing and mentorship. Today, our focus is closing the literacy gap by putting diverse, age-appropriate books into children’s hands, one story at a time.
Our story
2000 — Teens Reaching Teens is founded in October, and Teen Graffiti magazine launches, written by and for teens.
2004 — The first Keepin’ It Real! Youth Empowerment Summit brings teens together for leadership and real-life skills.
2016 — The Keepin’ It Real! Youth Empowerment Summits complete a 12-year run, reaching more than 5,000 participants.
2021 — Teen Graffiti publishes its final issue after 21 years.
Today — Literacy partnerships with schools, universities and community organizations put diverse books in children’s hands.
By the numbers
- 10,000+ young people reached across all programs and partnerships
- 5,000+ teens at Keepin’ It Real! Youth Empowerment Summits (2004–2016)
- 21 years of Teen Graffiti magazine (2000–2021)
- 26 years serving North Texas youth
Our founder
Sharon Jones-Scaife, Founder & CEO
Sharon is an author, illustrator and literacy advocate with more than 35 years of experience in graphic design, illustration and writing. She founded Teens Reaching Teens in 2000 to give young people a voice and the tools to succeed, and she has led the organization for more than 26 years.
Our literacy partner
Lil’ Marco and Friends provides diverse children’s books for Teens Reaching Teens programs at cost. Both organizations were founded by Sharon Jones-Scaife and operate independently.