We rely on community members to serve as volunteer coaches. Teaching experience is not required; in fact, most of our volunteers are in various careers and have little or no teaching background, but are dedicated to enhancing the academic skills of young people.

All interested volunteers go through an initial training session. Workshops on phonics, vocabulary, and reading comprehension are offered on a regular basis. The Director and Teacher Consultants provide ongoing support, guidance, and materials.

This is an important opportunity to support low-income students who cannot afford to hire a professional tutor, yet want desperately to succeed in school. It is a chance to share a love of reading with one young person and provide a positive, caring influence on that student.

We currently have over 100 dedicated volunteers serving as Reading Coaches and Writing Coaches. Volunteers tutor the same student one hour per week for the academic school year (September-June). When vacation or illness occurs, substitute coaches fill in.

Following are volunteer opportunities available at the Institute.

SUMMER GAME CAMP VOLUNTEERS: Interested in helping out with our 2008 Summer Game Camp? We'll be here 3:30-5:30, Mon-Thurs for kids six and up. If you're willing to help out to supervise, play board or computer games with the children we'd love to have you. Please contact Sandy Williams at 995-6816.

READING COACHES: Each Reading Coach spends one hour per week (Monday-Thursday) at either 3:30 p.m., 4:30 p.m., 6p.m. or 7 p.m. with his or her student in a private setting.

WRITING COACHES: Writing Coaches spend either 1 or 2 hours a week working with small groups of students and/or an individual student helping them to learn organizational skills, use of new vocabulary and how to elaborate with description and details.

SUBSTITUTE COACHES: There is a weekly need for substitute Reading and Writing coaches. Training is provided. Substitutes determine days and times that they are available.

OFFICE ASSISTANTS: Community adults and high school seniors may apply to serve as Office Assistants which may include answering phones, filing, copying and library management.

If you are interested in becoming a volunteer, please contact the Director at 995-6816.

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