At Memphis Striving Readers, we are dedicated to enhancing literacy in our community. We offer various programs including tutoring, family reading nights, and volunteer training to foster a love for reading among all ages.

If you have questions, need assistance, or want to get involved, we are here to help. There are multiple ways to reach out to us:

Your support is vital in our mission to promote literacy and empower families throughout Memphis. We look forward to connecting with you!

Choosing the Right Way to Get Involved

Reaching out is often the first step, but it helps to know what kind of support fits your situation before you call or write. Families, volunteers and community partners each connect with a literacy program in different ways, and a little preparation makes that first conversation more useful for everyone.

For families

If you are looking for help for a child or another family member, think about what you have noticed. Does your reader struggle to sound out new words, lose track of meaning in longer passages, or simply avoid books altogether? Sharing a few concrete examples helps match a reader with the right kind of tutoring or activity. It also helps to mention which days and times work for your household, since school schedules, work shifts and transport can all shape what is realistic. You can read more about the options on our programs page.

For volunteers

You do not need a teaching background to support a reader. Patience, reliability and a willingness to listen matter more than credentials. Before you get in touch, consider how much time you can commit each week and whether you prefer working one-on-one, helping at family reading nights, or supporting behind the scenes. Training prepares new volunteers for the basics, such as reading aloud together, asking questions that build comprehension and encouraging readers who feel discouraged. Details are on the volunteer page.

For schools, libraries and community groups

Partnerships work best when goals are clear from the start. If your organisation is interested in hosting a reading night or sharing materials, it is useful to outline the audience you serve, the space you have available and the kind of support you hope to offer or receive.

Helpful reading at home

While you wait to hear back, small habits can make a real difference: reading together for even fifteen minutes a day, keeping books where children can reach them, talking about stories at mealtimes and visiting a local library branch. Our resources section gathers practical ideas families can try right away.