share a page in a child's life
Thank you for your interest in volunteering as a Read Ahead mentor! We are now accepting applications from new and returning mentors.
Please note that we will not begin reviewing applications and onboarding mentors until August, 2024. In the meantime, please reach out to volunteer@readahead.org with questions.
Read Ahead is dedicated to helping New York City youth strengthen the literacy and social-emotional skills they need to thrive in school and beyond.
Since 1991, Read Ahead has connected public elementary school students with caring mentors from leading corporate and community partners. During weekly sessions, mentors and mentees read together, discuss books and their lives, and engage in fun and educational games and activities. Read Ahead sessions are designed to help children grow their literacy skills, confidence, love of reading, and other skills essential for success.
Please note that we prioritize volunteers from our corporate & community partners. If you are not affiliated with one of our partners, you may submit an application as an unaffiliated mentor and we will consider your application as space allows.
Learn more and submit your 10 minute application below.
Combining our 30 years of experience with new technology platforms and an educator-designed curriculum, Read Ahead sessions are designed to help children grow their literacy skills, confidence, love of reading, and other skills essential for success.
See answers to some of the most common questions from new and returning volunteers by visiting our FAQ page! Topics covered include more details about:
This fall, we will be hosting a series of live virtual info sessions for prospective volunteers. During each session, a Read Ahead staff member will answer audience questions, and give a brief overview of our program, the volunteer commitment, and the application process.
Please click the link below to see our current schedule and register to attend an info session.
All Read Ahead mentors must be 18 years of age or older, pass a criminal background check, and sign a mentor agreement. More information about the time commitment and other expectations can be found on the first page of our application.
We prioritize volunteers from our corporate & community partners. If you are not affiliated with one of our partners, you may submit an application as an unaffiliated mentor and we will consider your application as space allows. If you are interested in learning more about how your company can become a Read Ahead partner, please contact us – we would love to speak with you!