Volunteer Reader (Help a blind neighbor: Opportunities throughout Greater Boston)

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There might be a blind adult in your neighborhood who can use your help with reading mail. Together you’ll go through the mail, and the consumer (the person you're helping) will tell you which things you can toss. There might be a form to fill out or a party invitation that needs a response. You also might help to organize a pile of paperwork that the consumer can no longer read. Occasionally we get a request for a volunteer to read at an individual's workplace.

There is a six-month minimum commitment, and volunteers must be at least 18 or accompanied by an adult. Volunteers must attend one training session in our Brookline office (choose from day or evening training) and must also have a personal interview with the Coordinator of Volunteer Services. Once those requirements are out of the way, you will be matched with someone close to where you live or work (depending on where there is a need). Most volunteer assignments involve a commitment of 2-3 hours per week; some assignments involve less time. Flexible schedule - you can volunteer days, evenings or weekends. You and the person you'll be working with will schedule your meeting times.

Your voice should be easy to understand and you should be comfortable with reading. Patience and a sense of humor go a long way.

Come to a training - you'll enjoy it! We want your volunteer experience to be something you look forward to!