Born in Detroit, Built for Detroit
Spark 313 was founded by Alex and Ava Elia, two high schoolers who first noticed the problem firsthand — while volunteering at Detroit schools. They saw classrooms without enough books, students sharing worn-out supplies, and a quiet but persistent gap between what kids had and what they needed to thrive.
That experience led them to research the issue deeper. They discovered the concept of book deserts — communities where children have little to no access to high-quality, affordable print. In Southeast Michigan, 61% of children live in neighborhoods that lack public libraries and stores that sell books. Research consistently shows that the most effective way to improve reading achievement among low-income children is simply to increase their access to print.
So they built Spark 313. Named after Detroit's iconic 313 area code, we exist to close the learning gap — putting books and hands-on learning resources into the hands of every child in our city, regardless of zip code, family income, or school budget.
"The 313 isn't just an area code. It's a declaration of belonging. Every kit we build is addressed to every child who calls this city home."
