It only takes an hour a week to change a life … Our volunteer reading partners have the unique opportunity to work one-on-one with the same students every week throughout an entire semester or school year. Equipped with our research validated curriculum, any volunteer is set up to help their student/s gain the valuable literacy skills they need to succeed.
Kids are human, of course. There may be some days when a student just feels like standing on his/her head, or daydreaming through a lesson. But, that’s okay. It’s all part of the wonderful experience working with kids. And you may be surprised how far they will come in four or eight months with consistent support. One day a student might feel like standing on his/her head, but the next day they may find a story that grabs their heart or imagination, and inspires them to become enthusiastic about learning to read it.
Those who are reading partners know, there are a million and one reasons to volunteer with reading partners, here are just 10 of those reasons:
1. It’s fun
“Kids say the darndest things” and our students won’t let you down. Working with kids is spontaneous, silly, and productive fun. They are ready to learn and ready to laugh.
2. It’s easy (most of the time)
Becoming a reading partner may seem like a daunting task, but with tons of support every step of the way and an easy to use curriculum, we make tutoring a breeze. Anyone over the age of 14 can do it.
3. You will change a life
Even when you don’t think you are, you are. Our students will remember their reading partners for years to come (maybe forever!). By helping students learn to read, reading partners are teaching a skill that will last a lifetime and help students succeed in school and in life.
4. It’s good for your health
Research shows that volunteering is good for your health; lowering levels of stress and increasing happiness and life satisfaction.
5. You will be a part of the solution and a national movement
By becoming a reading partner you are joining a national literacy movement focused on helping all children become lifelong readers and ensuring they have the reading skills they need to succeed in school and in life.
6. You have a good reason to drop everything for one hour and you don’t have to feel guilty
Research shows that taking regular breaks in the day actually increases productivity. Not to mention, taking a long lunch to read with a kid can really lift your spirits–100% guilt free.
7. You get to make a kid smile
There’s really nothing better!
8. It’s good for your community
Communities that serve together, grow together.
In the U.S., 4 out of 5 fourth graders from low-income families cannot read at grade level. For communities with high levels of poverty, literacy and quality education pose barriers to student success. Helping shape students, helps communities flourish.
9. You get to revisit some of your favorite kids books
Oh! The Places You’ll Go, Corduroy, Charlotte’s Web, The Giving Tree. There is a lot of wisdom in these books. Transporting back to childhood takes on a whole new meaning as an adult.
10. You will inspire others to take action
Parents who read in the home are more likely to have kids who read. The same holds true for volunteering. By setting a great example in your network and community, you will inspire others to do their part.