research-backed

From regular student assessment to contracting for independent studies, Reading Partners systematically collects, analyzes, and uses data to generate knowledge, improve programs, and report on impacts.

Learn more about research-backed term

science of reading

The established and growing research we have about how students learn to read, including systemic phonics education.

Learn more about science of reading term

individualized

A facet of high-dosage tutoring in which a tutor offers one-on-one attention to their student, resulting in targeted support, and personalized literacy learning.

Learn more about individualized term

high-dosage

The frequency of a learning experience. For example, Reading Partners students receive twice weekly tutoring for maximum growth.

Learn more about high-dosage term

educational equity

Ensuring every student, no matter their race, gender, socioeconomic level, or location has access to the resources and support they need to succeed in school and in life.

Learn more about educational equity term
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Volunteer in New York City

Jump to sign up
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Online & in-person options

Volunteering is available in person and online with Reading Partners New York.

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1 hour per week

Volunteers commit to a little over an hour per week. We welcome more.

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Flexible times

Flexible weekly tutoring times are available. Choose the time that works best for you!

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No experience required

We provide a highly effective, easy-to-use curriculum, training, and ongoing support.

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Volunteer requirements

  • Age: You must be 14 years or older.
  • Time & location: Commit to a little over one hour per week (tutoring generally takes place 8 am-4:30 pm, Mon-Thurs) and reside in the United States.
  • Training: Complete required tutor orientation.
  • Technology: Online tutors must have access to a computer and reliable wifi.
  • Screening: Pass a background check and any additional required screening.
  • Terms and conditions: Agree to the terms of our tutor code of conduct.

Sign up to volunteer in New York City this fall

Thank you for your interest in becoming a volunteer reading partner. We are currently accepting in-person and online volunteers for the upcoming 2025-26 school year. To get started, please fill out one of the sign-up forms below. We will contact you via email with more information about tutor orientations and next steps.

If you are a returning tutor with questions, please contact us via email or phone. Otherwise, no action is needed at this time.

Volunteer In-Person           Volunteer Online 

Note: The information collected in the sign-up process will help us learn more about you, better understand and support our volunteers, and meet grant requirements. You will only submit this information once. Reading Partners respects your right to privacy, and takes data security very seriously (see our privacy policy).

Reading center locations

Here is a reference map of our reading center locations for volunteers interested in tutoring in-person. You can select your preferred location in the sign-up form above. 

Key:
Green markers: low need for tutoring
Orange markers: medium need for tutoring
Red markers: high need for tutoring

Harlem (Manhattan)

Lower East Side (Manhattan)

Mott Haven (South Bronx)

Bedford-Stuyvesant (Brooklyn)

Crown Heights (Brooklyn)

East Flatbush/Canarsie (Brooklyn)

South Jamaica (Queens)

More schools coming soon!