Family Literacy Volunteer

Volunteer Role:                Family Literacy Volunteer

Location:                            WHEDco Early Childhood Discover Center

Volunteer Coordinator:  Family Literacy Director

About Us:

The Women’s Housing and Economic Development Corporation (WHEDco) is a community development organization founded on the radically simple idea that all people deserve to live in healthy, vibrant communities. We build award-winning, sustainable, affordable homes – but our work is not over when our buildings are complete. WHEDco believes that to be successful, affordable housing must be anchored in strong communities of which residents can be proud. WHEDco’s mission is to create and bridge access to resources in the South Bronx that support thriving neighborhoods – from high-quality early education and after-school programs, to fresh, healthy food, cultural programming, and economic opportunity. See www.whedco.org for more information.

Program Overview:

The WHEDco Family Literacy Program supports parents, caregivers, and young children through literacy and language development activities. Family Literacy Volunteers provide supplemental support by encouraging conversation, assisting with literacy activities, and helping create an engaging learning environment under the guidance of WHEDco staff.

Volunteer service enhances existing programming and is intended to support, not replace, the work of WHEDco employees.

Key Responsibilities:

• Engage adult participants in informal conversational English practice using activities and materials provided by program staff.
• Encourage participants as they practice reading, speaking, and language development skills introduced during program sessions.
• Read books with children and participate in storytelling, educational games, and literacy activities under the supervision of program staff.
• Assist with preparing materials, organizing supplies, and setting up or cleaning up activities before and after sessions.
• Welcome participants and help create an inclusive, supportive, and encouraging learning environment.
• Provide general assistance to program staff during family literacy activities and special events.
• Follow all WHEDco policies regarding confidentiality, child safety, and professional conduct.
• Participate in required volunteer orientation and training.

Qualifications:

• High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
• College students, retired educators, community members, and individuals interested in education, literacy, or nonprofit work are encouraged to volunteer.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Fluency in Spanish or another language is welcomed but not required.
• Successful completion of all required background checks before beginning volunteer service.
• Willingness to learn and work collaboratively with staff.

Time Commitment

• Volunteers are encouraged to commit to a consistent schedule whenever possible.
• Typical volunteer opportunities are available one or more mornings each week based on program needs and volunteer availability.

Benefits of Volunteering

• Gain experience in literacy, education, and community programming.
• Learn about working with multilingual families and young children.
• Support parents as they build confidence in reading and language development.
• Make a meaningful contribution to children and families in the Bronx.
• Develop skills applicable to careers in education, social services, nonprofit organizations, and child development.

Volunteer Status

This is an unpaid volunteer opportunity intended to supplement the work of WHEDco employees through community engagement and educational enrichment. Volunteers do not replace paid staff, perform work that would otherwise be assigned to employees, or have primary responsibility for delivering program services.