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by Sherry Comerchero
A few "how-tos" for those interested in developing a volunteer-based literacy program:
- Develop a purpose. Familiarize yourself with the startling statistics related to illiteracy in the United States.
- Form a steering group. Bring together people with an interest in combating illiteracy in your community. The group composition may be varied and include teachers (current and retired), SLPs, reading specialists, the parent-teacher organization or interested parents,
retirees, etc.
- Don't reinvent the wheel. Discover the national, state, and community resources that support your efforts with materials and financial contributions.
- Identify a school in your community that demonstrates a need (and desire) for your program. Meet with school officials to discuss an overview of your program, with specific expectations of your group and the school.
- Recruit volunteers. Get the word out through announcements in your community newspaper, word-of-mouth, and presentations or newsletter articles at community and religious organizations, senior centers, teacher retirement groups, etc.
- Train volunteers. Develop user-friendly materials or use available materials designed for parents and volunteers. Have volunteers sign an application that indicates their availability. (All volunteers must complete the school's criminal background check before working with students.)
- Inform teachers of this new program and spread the excitement. Establish dates for teachers to refer students to your program. In some schools, the reading specialists often become directly involved in assigning referred students to volunteers. In others, groups are led by volunteer team leaders who communicate regularly with volunteers to
provide guidance and support.
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