Deon Reese - IWRBR 2026

I believe success means more when you are able to use what you have learned, built, and experienced to create opportunities for someone else.

Throughout my career in real estate and entrepreneurship, I have had the opportunity to help people take meaningful steps toward their goals. Whether that means purchasing a home, investing in their future, building a business, or developing professionally, I have seen how access to the right knowledge, resources, and guidance can change what someone believes is possible.

That same idea is one of the reasons the mission of I Would Rather Be Reading connects with me.

When children have access to strong literacy skills, caring adults, and opportunities to learn, we are giving them tools that can impact every part of their future. Reading helps young people understand the world around them, communicate with confidence, continue learning, and eventually pursue opportunities of their own.

I have always believed that being part of a community also means giving back to it. Through my business, church, relationships, and community involvement, I have tried to use the opportunities I have been given to support others and contribute to organizations doing meaningful work in Louisville. Leadership is not only about what you accomplish for yourself. It is also about what you are willing to invest in other people.

That is why I am proud to support I Would Rather Be Reading during Give for Good Louisville. IWRBR is investing in our children by providing literacy support, meaningful relationships, enrichment, and spaces where young people can grow in both their skills and their confidence.

I hope you will join me in supporting this important work. Every contribution is an investment in a child and in the future of our community. Together, we can help ensure that more Louisville children have the resources, encouragement, and opportunities they need to learn, grow, and build a future they can be proud of.