Book Buddies - Literacy Mentor

This program will support children who are reading below their grade level in grades 2-4, as research shows that strong early reading skills are a predictor of future academic success. Reading at the appropriate grade level has been identified as a protective factor for vulnerable children.

The goal for this program is not only to support learners to read at their grade-level, but even more importantly to foster a love for reading, and to encourage children to become lifelong readers. The activities will focus on making reading fun, and developing confidence and motivation to read.

Activities will also guide learners through reading exercises that focus on the following keys to reading success: Phonemic awareness, Phonics, Developing Vocabulary and Sight Word banks, Reading Comprehension, and Fluency. 

We are looking for SFU students or alumni to volunteer as Literacy Mentors with the program from 2:30 p.m. to approximately 5:00 p.m. on one or both of the following days:

• Tuesdays at Old Yale Elementary School 
• Thursdays at Hjorth Road Elementary School

Requirements

The successful incumbent should:

• Be currently enrolled in an undergraduate degree, graduate degree, or Continuing Studies program at SFU or be an SFU Alumni;

• Be passionate about helping those in the community and making a difference;

• Have excellent oral and written communication skills

• Have a strong ability to take initiative, independently interact with program participants and be proactive. Can determine what needs to be done and do it before being asked to; 

• Have excellent interpersonal skills and exhibit a friendly and approachable attitude

• Be excited to work with people with diverse backgrounds and personalities;

• Previous experience working with children in a recreation or school setting will be considered an asset;

• Volunteers must attend a mandatory training session to prepare them for the program; 

• Be prepared to provide a copy of a valid Criminal Record Check.

Please Note: If the required number of volunteers for this program is reached before the above deadline, this posting may be taken down.

Collection Notice: The information collected as part of the application process is under the authority of the University Act (R.S.B.C. 1996, c.468). It is related directly to and needed by the University to administer the volunteer program through the SFU Surrey – TD Community Engagement Centre. The information will be used to screen volunteer applicants, refer applicants to opportunities of interest, and update applicants with information related to volunteer opportunities. If you have any questions about the collection and use of this information please contact Associate Director, Partnerships and Programs, 250-13450 102 Avenue, Surrey BC, V3T 0A3, 778-782-8082.