Literacy Specialist (Volunteer)

Literacy Specialist (Volunteer)

Organization: Mentor A Promise (MAP)

Location: Remote and/or New York City (depending on program needs)

Type: Volunteer (Unpaid)

About Mentor A Promise

Mentor A Promise (MAP) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting children and youth ages 5–18 experiencing housing instability in New York City. Through mentorship, academic enrichment, social-emotional learning, literacy development, and creative expression, MAP creates safe, consistent, and empowering spaces where young people can thrive.

Role Overview

We are seeking a Volunteer Literacy Specialist to support literacy development for students in MAP’s programs. This role will focus on building engaging, accessible, and age-appropriate literacy activities, helping students strengthen reading, writing, and comprehension skills. The Literacy Specialist will collaborate with mentors, program staff, and families to ensure literacy initiatives are effective, culturally responsive, and aligned with MAP’s mission.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and implement literacy-focused activities and interventions for students (K–12)
• Provide one-on-one or small group support to strengthen reading and writing skills
• Collaborate with program staff and mentors to integrate literacy into academic enrichment
• Develop culturally relevant resources and materials to engage diverse learners
• Track student progress and provide feedback to families and program leadership
• Support training for mentors in literacy best practices
• Promote a love of reading, writing, and storytelling among students

Qualifications

• Background in education, literacy, reading intervention, or related field
• Experience working with children and youth, particularly in underserved communities
• Strong knowledge of literacy development strategies and age-appropriate practices
• Excellent communication, patience, and cultural sensitivity
• Ability to collaborate with staff, mentors, and families in a supportive manner
• Bilingual or multilingual abilities (Spanish, Haitian Creole, or others) a plus

Commitment

• Volunteer role, approximately 5–10 hours per week
• Minimum 6-month commitment preferred
• Remote and/or in-person (depending on program needs)

What You’ll Gain

• Hands-on experience supporting literacy development in a nonprofit setting
• Opportunities to design and implement meaningful literacy programs
• Collaboration with a passionate, mission-driven team of educators and mentors
• Professional references and letters of recommendation
• The chance to make a lasting difference in the lives of children and youth in shelters

How to Apply

Please send your resume and LinkedIn profile to [email protected] along with a brief statement of interest.

You may also apply directly here: https://forms.gle/ptgy2zBZXJB1q7GV8

Help students find their voice, build confidence, and unlock opportunity through literacy.