Volunteers sought.
In recognition of International Volunteer Day on Dec. 5, Achieve Pinal, in partnership with the AARP Foundation Experience Corps, is calling on volunteers aged 50 and over to join their mission of improving early literacy for K-3 students. With both in-person and virtual tutoring options available, the program offers the opportunity for volunteers nationwide to make a real difference. Whether from the comfort of home or in local schools, volunteers can experience the rewards of helping children build essential reading skills while staying mentally active and socially engaged.
Early literacy is a key predictor of long-term educational success. Students who are not proficient in reading by the end of third grade are four times more likely to drop out of high school, making early intervention crucial. With only 31% of third graders in Pinal County passing their reading exams and 70% of jobs in the county requiring some form of higher education, the need for literacy support is more urgent than ever.
Achieve Pinal is focused on closing this education gap to break cycles of poverty and build stronger communities. Through the Achieve Pinal Experience Corps reading program, 87% of students improved their reading levels by at least one grade during the 2024-2025 school year and 54% advanced by two grade levels or more.
In addition to the positive impact on students, 98% of volunteers reported experiencing increased mental and physical activity and 85% stated their lives were improved because of their involvement in the program.
“The program’s success is driven by our dedicated volunteers,” says Patti King, Achieve Pinal committee member and Executive Manager of the Pinal Alliance for Economic Growth. “Ninety-five more volunteers are needed to expand the program’s reach and continue its success. With the flexibility of virtual tutoring now available, volunteers can have a meaningful impact on students’ lives from anywhere in the U.S.”
Volunteers do not need prior teaching experience. The program provides all necessary training to help tutors succeed.
Why Volunteer?
- Help young students build critical reading skills
- Stay mentally sharp and socially engaged
- Make a difference from anywhere with virtual tutoring
- Be part of a nationwide movement to improve literacy rates
How to Get Involved
Individuals aged 50+ are encouraged to apply at https://www.achievepinal.org/aarpprogram or contact Kaitlin Burks, Achieve Pinal Experience Corps Volunteer Manager at (520) 634-8938 or kaitlin@achievepinal.org for more information.
If you know someone who might be interested in making a difference in young readers’ lives, please share this opportunity with them. Together, we can shape the future of young readers and help them succeed in school and beyond. Learn more at: https://www.achievepinal.org/aarpprogram
ABOUT ACHIEVE PINAL
Achieve Pinal is a regional grassroots effort dedicated to working with education, government, business and other interested community partners to develop a competitive workforce for future jobs by improving educational attainment in Pinal County.