Words Alive | K12 AcademicsBefore the arrival of COVID-19, 46% of students in San Diego County could not read at grade level at the beginning of 4th grade. This problem is not unique to San Diego: 1 in 3 children in 4th grade, across the country, read below a basic level. Now, more than ever, as we’re navigating a global pandemic, reading is a skill-set for survival. The ability to read, and be able to understand what we read, is a skill-set we use every day of our lives whether we’re responding to a text message, reading for fun, applying to schools and jobs, purchasing a car or house, or navigating health insurance. You’re doing it right now as you explore our array of ongoing and one-time virtual volunteer opportunities here.

Words Alive prides itself on being volunteer-founded and volunteer-led. By volunteering with us, you will help families learn, create, and build healthy reading habits at home. You will identify which books to include in our curriculum. You will create the teaching guides used by the educators and volunteers who deliver our programs. You will put more books in the hands of children who need them. But most importantly, you will join a community of passionate and dedicated volunteers who know that, together, we can change the stories of the students and families we serve.

Volunteer Orientation

All new Words Alive volunteers must attend a volunteer orientation. All orientations are held virtually until further notice. Click one of the session dates below to register for the orientation.

Friday, March 26th from 9:00-10:00 AM Pacific

Friday, April 9th from 9:00 – 10:00 AM Pacific