At Memphis Striving Readers, we are dedicated to enhancing literacy across our community. We invite you to stay connected with us and learn about the various ways you can get involved.

Whether you are interested in tutoring, participating in our family reading nights, or volunteering your time, there are numerous opportunities to make a difference. Our programs are designed to foster a love for reading and improve literacy skills among children and families in Memphis.

To reach out to us, you can:

We are always here to help and support your journey in promoting literacy. Thank you for your interest in Memphis Striving Readers!

Getting Involved: What to Expect When You Reach Out

Many people who contact a community literacy program are not sure where they fit. Some have a free evening each week, some want to help their own children read with more confidence, and others simply want to support the work from a distance. Knowing a little about how each path works can make that first message easier to write.

If you want to tutor

Most tutoring roles ask for a regular commitment, because steady contact with the same adult is one of the things that helps a struggling reader most. You do not need a teaching background. New tutors usually start with an orientation that covers basic phonics, how to listen to a child read without taking over, and simple ways to build vocabulary and comprehension through conversation. When you write to us, it helps to mention which days and times suit you and which part of Memphis is easiest for you to reach. You can read more about the roles on our volunteer page.

If you are a parent or caregiver

Family reading nights are designed to be relaxed. Children and adults read together, try out games built around letters and words, and leave with ideas for keeping books part of everyday life at home. Even ten or fifteen minutes of shared reading most days makes a real difference: talking about pictures, asking what might happen next, or reading a favourite book again all build skills that carry over into the classroom.

If you want to help in other ways

Not everyone can give time every week. Sharing event details with neighbours, passing along gently used children's books, or telling a local school or congregation about our sessions all help more families find us. For a sense of the full range of activities, see our programs, and look through the resources section for reading tips you can use straight away.

Whatever brings you to us, a short note about your interests and availability is the best place to start. From there we can suggest the option that suits you and the community best.