Description
The Challenge
In 2011, 82 percent of fourth-graders in Chicago Public Schools failed to reach the "proficient" level in reading. This represents thousands and thousands of students who are missing out on one of the most critical building blocks for long-term academic success.
An Opportunity
AARP Experience Corps is a proven program made up of volunteers 50 and older who are dedicated to helping children become great readers before they finish the third grade.
At AARP Experience Corps, we believe every child has the right to learn to read fluently and to reap the joys and opportunities that literacy provides. Our evidence-based tutoring and mentoring program guides children in kindergarten through third grade on the path to reading proficiently and confidently.
How You Can Help
In the fall of 2013, AARP Experience Corps will launch its award-winning program in 15 Chicago public schools, serving thousands of children who are most in need of reading support from a caring older adult.
You can help these students become strong lifelong readers by:
Volunteering in schools. Give a child a year of your time - you’ll get back more than you can imagine. You need only have a high school diploma or GED and an ability to commit at least four hours per week during the school year. We provide the training and we're recruiting now.
Making a donation. Not everyone can give a full school year to our children, but you can donate any amount to help donate any amount to further our mission in Chicago.
Help us launch in Chicago
Join us for an informational meeting to learn about AARP Experience Corps and to discuss how we can build stronger neighborhoods together.
Please contact Simone McCrary at 312-660-8656 or smccrary@aarp.org for more information.
