At Memphis Striving Readers, we are dedicated to enhancing literacy across our community. We offer various programs, including tutoring, family reading nights, and volunteer training, all aimed at fostering a love for reading and learning.
We encourage you to reach out to us for more information on how you can get involved or support our mission. Whether you are interested in volunteering, attending an event, or simply learning more about our programs, we are here to help.
Here are some ways you can connect with us:
- Email: [email protected]
- Phone: (901) 123-4567
- Social Media: Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for updates and events.
Your support helps us make a difference in the lives of children and families in Memphis. 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 quite sure where they fit, and that is perfectly fine. Some want to give a couple of hours a week, some are parents looking for help for a child who is struggling with reading, and others simply want to understand how literacy work happens in Memphis neighborhoods. A short message explaining your interest, your availability and the part of the city you live or work in makes it much easier to point you toward the right next step.
If you are thinking about volunteering
Tutoring a young reader does not require a teaching degree. What matters most is patience, reliability and a willingness to follow a structured approach. New volunteers usually start with training that covers how to read aloud with a child, how to support phonics and decoding practice, and how to encourage a reluctant reader without turning sessions into a test. You can read more about the commitment involved on our volunteer page.
If you are a parent or caregiver
Families often ask how they can help at home between sessions. A few habits make a real difference:
- Read together for even ten or fifteen minutes a day, letting your child choose the book sometimes.
- Talk about stories: ask what might happen next or how a character feels.
- Keep books, magazines and library cards within easy reach.
- Praise effort and progress rather than speed.
Family reading nights are designed with these same ideas in mind, giving parents and children a relaxed setting to share books and pick up practical tips. Details about our tutoring and family activities are on the programs page, and free reading suggestions and printable ideas can be found in our resources.
Supporting the work in other ways
Not everyone can tutor, but books, school supplies, spreading the word to neighbors and helping at events all keep a local literacy effort going. Every form of support helps more Memphis children grow into confident, lifelong readers.