Volunteering with Literacy Pittsburgh gives you the chance to see firsthand the impact of your actions. You don't need to have teaching experience, and you don't need to speak a foreign language. Your enthusiasm, patience, and compassion are far more important.
Training is provided. All volunteers must be at least 18 years of age and possess a high school credential or higher. Some volunteer positions may require background checks, which will be paid for by Literacy Pittsburgh.
There are several ways you can help Literacy Pittsburgh's students succeed.
Adult Education
Work with an adult student in English, reading, writing, or math to build their confidence and realize their goals.
Tutor
Work with an adult student or a small group twice a week for 1.5 to 2 hours per session, for a minimum of six months. Tutoring sessions are held in a public place or virtually at a mutually convenient time for student(s) and tutor.
Classroom Aide
Assist one of our professional instructors at least once each week for a minimum of three months. Our classes meet Monday to Thursday in the morning, afternoon, and evening. Classes meet both virtually and in person.
Student Support
Participate in mentoring and helping connect students to valuable community resources.
Career Services Volunteer
Assist Literacy Pittsburgh’s career advisors so students may realize their professional goals. Opportunities include resume and cover letter review and advice, interview preparation practice, career exploration, mentorships, and more.
Immigrant Services and Connections Volunteer
Assist Literacy Pittsburgh’s service coordinators to help immigrant students overcome barriers and adjust to life in the United States.
Child and Family Programs
Work with children and families to help build reading skills, self-esteem, and a positive attitude toward learning.
Empowering ReAders for Success (ERAS) Tutor
Help an elementary-aged child in Clairton City Schools or Catalyst Charter Academy develop reading skills using lesson plans tailored to your student's progress.
Early Childhood Education Volunteers
Assist Literacy Pittsburgh’s Early Childhood Education (ECE) professionals in the care and education of children aged birth to 5.
Other Opportunities
From fundraising to helping students with conversational English, there are other ways you can help people in your community succeed.
Fundraising
Literacy Pittsburgh’s programs are offered free of charge to students due to the generosity of local individuals, foundations, and corporations. Please consider sharing your passion for literacy with friends, colleagues, and family.
Group Classroom Conversation
We welcome corporate or civic groups to help our students enhance their educational experience at Literacy Pittsburgh. Sessions are scheduled periodically on a first come, first served basis throughout the year.
