Literacy, reading volunteers needed at Early Learning Coalition

ORANGE PARK – Do you have a passion for reading? Do you enjoy small children? Are you fun loving and animated? If so, volunteering for the Early Learning Coalition of North Florida is the opportunity for you.
The ELCNF is actively seeking volunteers for two of its literacy programs. The first is their volunteer reading program were volunteer readers read weekly in a local pre-school classroom to a group of children. The second is their literacy outreach program where volunteers assist in putting on themed literacy programs and help with literacy events. Volunteers can participate in both programs. Training is provided and background checks are required.
“We are so grateful for our volunteers,” said Joan Whitson, ELC’s Early Literacy Outreach Manager. “The staff has told me the children look forward to greeting the readers and they become an important part of their week. Studies show that the best opportunity to influence our children’s lifetime learning is before kindergarten when their most rapid period of brain growth occurs. Reading to children sets the groundwork for their future ability to read and learn.” As part of the program readers are able to give their classroom a free book twice during the school year. Volunteers participating in the themed programs get a chance to read and act out stories as well as leading the children in a variety of learning and craft activities.
An informational volunteer orientation meeting will be held on Sept. 17th at the ELC office at 3620 Peoria Rd. in Orange Park at 1 pm.
To register for this session or for more information about volunteering contact Joan Whitson, Early Literacy Outreach Manager at: jwhitson@elcnorthflorida.org or 904-342-2267 ext. 202.