Writers’ Exchange (Literacy mentor with inner-city kids)

• Background/police check requiredAppropriate for youth (i.e., less than 18)Appropriate for volunteers aged between 18 and 55Appropriate for volunteers aged 55 and overTraining or orientation required

Writers’ Exchange volunteer mentors help inner-city kids boost their literacy skills and self-esteem during super-fun writing projects!

Mentors bond with kids (ages 6 to 13) during literacy games, help them read picture books and graphic novels, and encourage their creativity during crafts and writing time. (And mentors often get to make their own crafts, too!) You don’t need to plan the activities—just show up ready to support the kids.

Many of the kids we work with have tough home lives and have low skills and self-confidence when it comes to reading and writing, but when volunteers like you make the kids feel safe and supported, the kids build the self-confidence and skills to achieve anything!

Programs run at multiple locations across East Vancouver from July 3rd to August 24th. Program times are usually from 9:30am – 12pm, and 12:30 – 3pm. Volunteers are asked to commit to at least one program/week for 6 of the 8 weeks in the summer term (final program details will be confirmed in June).

DELIVERABLES/DUTIES:

Be a consistent positive adult role model for the kids
Bring your creativity and enthusiasm to all shifts
Model an infectious love for reading and writing
Demonstrate compassion for the community in which the Writers’ Exchange is situated
Become familiar with the Writers’ Exchange and our mission and culture
Commit to constantly learning how you can best support the kids
Able to fully commit to attending the same weekly shift in the same program for 6 of the 8 weeks in the summer term (July 3rd to August 24th).

QUALIFICATIONS:

Able to fully commit to attending the same weekly shift in the same program for the full summer term (at least 6 of 8 weeks)
Previous experience working with children is great but is not required. We provide ongoing training and support.
Passionate about helping kids, and not afraid to be wacky!
Possess at least 15 of the following qualities: adaptable, committed, compassionate, consistent, flexible, friendly, fun, genuine, kind, love to learn, open-minded, relaxed, team player, trustworthy, and understanding
Be at least 16 years old
Provide two references
Willing to complete a BC Criminal Records Check (please note it can take up to 4 weeks to process a criminal record check, so please apply ASAP for the upcoming term)

We love working with volunteers from all backgrounds! This is an especially great volunteering opportunity if you’re thinking about becoming a teacher, social worker, child psychologist or working with children or youth in any capacity and want to gain concrete skills, experience and hours working with kids. It’s also an energizing break from your daily routine, a great way to make connections and build community, and a fun, meaningful opportunity to work with kids who need your support.

HOW TO APPLY: 

Please visit vancouverwe.com/volunteer-faqs for more info and to fill out an application form before June 4th.