Moms to Know: Jen Knopf, President and Founding Director, REED Charitable Foundation
When Jen Knopf’s son was diagnosed with dyslexia, she quickly realized just how difficult it was to find the right support despite the fact that dyslexia is the longest known and most common learning difference that exists, impacting 1-in-5. That realization sparked a mission that would grow into the REED Charitable Foundation: an Orlando-based nonprofit that’s now leading the charge for ensuring all educators are trained in the science of how children learn to read.
REED provides affordable, research-based literacy training for educators and practical resources for families. Under Jen’s leadership, the foundation has partnered with schools, libraries, and community organizations to bring structured literacy and dyslexia support to families who often can’t access these tools otherwise.
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A former attorney, Jen blends professional tenacity with the compassion of a mother who’s walked this path herself. “We cannot leave the ability to read to luck or chance,” she says. “Every child deserves the gift of literacy.”
This year, REED was selected as the primary beneficiary of Visit Orlando’s Magical Dining program—a milestone moment that Jen calls “a dream come true.” The support will help expand REED’s partnerships and programs throughout the region, changing lives one reader at a time.
Writing a New Chapter
Why is early literacy so critical to you and your mission?
Reading is foundational to everything. But today, only 43% of Florida’s littlest learners start kindergarten ready, and just 57% of students read at grade level. What most people don’t realize is that 95% of children can learn to read with the right instruction. We want to make sure every child has a teacher who can confidently help them get there.
What does REED do differently?
We provide best-in-class, evidence-based literacy training, coaching, and materials that not only explain why this type of instruction works but also how to implement it effectively. These resources are often only available at expensive private schools or tutoring centers. We bring them to public schools, community groups, and families at little to no cost.
Since launching in 2021, we’ve helped students make gains up to three times the national norm.
What’s one thing you want parents to know?
If your child is struggling with reading, you are not alone, and it’s not your fault. There are tools and support out there. And we’re here to help. Our work isn’t just about reading. It’s about giving kids the confidence to believe in themselves. There’s no greater gift than that.
How does reading impact a child’s future beyond school?
The effects of struggling to read ripple far beyond the classroom. There’s a direct link between literacy and issues like food & housing insecurity, mental health, substance abuse, low employment rates, and even the school-to-prison pipeline.
When we teach children to read, we give them the tools to thrive—not just academically, but in life.
What has been one of your most meaningful moments with REED so far?
There are so many, but what stays with me most are the stories from parents who finally feel seen and supported—and from teachers who say they now feel empowered to truly help their students. Knowing that our work is helping kids believe in themselves and changing the trajectory of their lives—that’s what drives me and the amazing RCF team every day.
Get to Know Jen Knopf
- Kids: Mackenzie (18) and Reed (14)
- Family-Favorite Place in Orlando: Winter Park Library + Events Center
- Go-to Weeknight Dinner: Sushi or tacos
- Quote to Live: “When you know better, you do better.” – Maya Angelou
- Favorite Local Cause (besides RCF): Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Florida, Mental Health Association of Central Florida, & Lift Orlando
Learn More:
REED Charitable Foundation
reedcharitablefoundation.org
Originally published in the Sept/Oct 2025 issue of Orlando Parenting Magazine
