Please fill out our volunteer application below if you want to get involved with ESLC for the 2023-2024 school year.
- Volunteer as a Literacy Mentor to Kindergarten - 3rd grade students in St. Paul.
- A caring relationship and one-on-one tutoring will help a student grow their literacy skills and achieve grade level reading!
- Virtual and in-person tutoring opportunities are available.
- Volunteers will be provided with everything they need to tutor and build trusting relationships: training, technology, materials, and staff support.
Where can I volunteer?
- St. Paul Elementary Schools (Specific Sites TBD)
- Liberty Plaza After School Program, St. Paul (virtual tutoring only)
What happens during a tutoring session?
Each structured, one-to-one tutoring session is 30 minutes. Sessions include time for relationship building, literacy skill development activities, reflection, a read aloud and a literacy game. Literacy Mentors are provided with the session structure, literacy tutoring materials and books. ESLC staff will provide training, support, ideas, and foster community among volunteers.
What skills and passions are needed to volunteer?
- Read and speak English.
- Desire to support children as they grow their literacy and social-emotional skills.
- Willingness to commit to the growth and well-being of a child for eight months when school is in session. Volunteers do not tutor during school breaks.
What is the volunteer age range?
Volunteers must be at least 18 years old. Community members age 50 and older are encouraged to apply. Experience Corps and ESLC are committed to intergenerational relationships and building a community of elders to guide the next generation of readers.
How much time do I need to commit?
From October through May, volunteers serve 4+ hours per week as Literacy Mentors. Literacy Mentors tutor the same students through the full school year.
What training will I receive?
ESLC provides an orientation and pre-service training on the session structure, literacy activities and mentoring strategies prior to Literacy Mentors beginning work with their students. Supplemental training is provided throughout the year for a total of 20-25 hours of training.
Are there other requirements to volunteer?
A background check, volunteer interview, and attendance at required trainings; ESLC covers the cost of the background check.
