Volunteer and Mentor at our Study Centers!

Save to Favorites

The Study Centers are an after-school program that serves low income students in and around our public housing communities in Front Street, Kennedy Park, Riverton Park, and Sagamore Village. The centers' collective goal is to help students become academically and socially successful and thus thrive in school and beyond. Over the last 25+ years, the PHA Study Centers have evolved into communal focal points for educational assistance for residents of all ages, resource centers for exploring post-secondary opportunities, a place for youth leadership development, and community service.

Volunteers will engage with students according to their needs - whether it is offering homework help, assisting in enrichment activities, or simply playing a game or lending an ear. Since the centers are drop-in spaces, every day presents a different set of needs and challenges. Since some centers may have up to 25 students at a time, volunteers are essential to be able to provide the much-needed support to as many students as possible. Volunteers interested in providing special services or projects are encouraged to meet with program staff to develop programs and projects. Tasks

• Engage youth in a variety of activities including homework, arts & crafts, and any other activities that fit their needs day-to-day.
• Assist students with homework (without giving the answers or doing the work for them).
• Motivate students to pursue independent reading, writing, art, and other enrichment activities.
• Help maintain a reasonably quiet, conductive environment.
• Assist coordinators with community outreach, upkeep of space, etc.

Desired Skills

• Motivated and self-directed
• Ability to have fun while maintaining boundaries.
• Cultural Competency
• Tutoring skills
• Punctuality and reliability
• Ability to create a safe and welcoming environment for all students.

When you send your interest through Volunteer Greater Portland, I will send you our application and background check forms. I can also send you a complete study center volunteer position description. These forms can also be found at phastudycenters.org.

Please contact our Resident Services Assistant with any questions.

Miranda Hanson | mhanson@porthouse.org | 207-773-4753 x8264