Do you love provoking thoughtful discussions, wrestling with deep topics in text aloud and in writing, and helping teenagers make connections to one another and the world around them? We’d love to have you volunteer to support our Adolescent Book Group Program (ABG)! Through reading new, diverse novels; engaging projects; writing workshops; and discussion sessions, teens in our Adolescent Book Group enhance their critical thinking skills, self-esteem and ability to express themselves.
Our Adolescent Book Group program serves 300-500 teenagers in schools and after-school programs throughout San Diego each year. Many of the teens with whom we work are facing extraordinary life circumstances such as homelessness, violence, teen pregnancy and impact by the justice system. Words Alive's commitment to reading diverse and relevant texts provides an avenue for program participants to connect books to themselves and the world while changing the story of their life.
We are looking for enthusiastic volunteers to work with amazing teens IN-PERSON at sites in San Diego for our Fall 2023 Programming.
Volunteer facilitators lead every other week book group discussions with teens using Words Alive discussion guides and enrichment materials to ensure that program goals are met.
Volunteer Responsibilities:
Read designated books prior to attending the monthly discussion group.
Attend all ABG monthly (or every six-week) book discussion groups.
Using Words Alive discussion questions, facilitate the 60 or 90-minute book group discussions each month (or every six-weeks)
Prepare enrichment materials in advance of discussions.
Encourage open communication among volunteers and program participants.
Support an environment where all program participants feel engaged and safe.
Use inclusive language
Attend all Words Alive sponsored in-service trainings, workshops, and appreciation events.
Communicate regularly with Words Alive staff, school sites, and other volunteers.
Ideal Volunteers Should:
· Enjoy reading young adult literature
· Be comfortable engaging in conversation with teens, often wrestling with topics of interest to teens
· Be culturally sensitive to the diverse backgrounds of our students
· Have reliable transportation
· Have a positive attitude
Hours and Locations:
Volunteers work with a team of other volunteers at an assigned school site in San Diego. Volunteers typically spend 2-5 hours per month. Classroom sessions are 60-75 minutes every other week, with the remainder of the time is spent reading the book and prepared guides.
Required Paperwork and Training:
· Volunteers will need to submit a completed application
· Volunteers must be 18 years or older
· Attend a 1-hour volunteer orientation for all Words Alive volunteers
· Complete a background check
· Attend a 2-hour training specific to the Adolescent Book Group program
· COVID requirements: provide proof of full vaccination, complete COVID waiver, comply with school requirements regarding masks.
· Submit a negative TB test.
To Get Started: Email [email protected] or call us at 858-274-9673 to sign up for the next orientation and training.