Philly Reading Coaches (PRC), part of Philadelphia’s Citywide Out of School Time Initiative, provides positive reading experiences by pairing young children with volunteers for fun, one-on-one reading sessions.

For one hour each week, students in kindergarten through third grade sit down with a community volunteer to read together. Each child also receives 25 free books they can take home to continue discovering the joys of reading.

There’s still room for you to sign up to volunteer with this amazing program! Here are some of the reasons why current volunteers have joined Philly Reading Coaches:

Coaches love to read!

“I volunteer with Philly Reading Coaches because I enjoy reading, and I would like to be a role model for other young students.”

“I became a Philly Reading Coach because I love to read and enjoy passing that passion on to young people. I often buy books and read with my young grandchildren.”

Coaches see the value of reading!

“Reading can take children on marvelous adventures. I became a Philly Reading Coach to help children learn that.”

“I think the Philly Reading Coaches’ initiative is imperative, as reading is not only an invaluable skill but also critical for advancing a child’s education.”

Coaches want to support young students and their communities!

“I struggled with reading as a child and want to help others avoid frustration through Philly Reading Coaches.”

“I became a Philly Reading Coach because I think reading skills are important for reducing inequality and building strength in our communities.”

Reading sessions take place after school between the hours of 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. in several schools, recreation centers, Police Athletic League (PAL), Free Library of Philadelphia, Philadelphia Housing Authority, and Project HOME sites all across the city. Visit the Philly Reading Coaches website for an up-to-date listing of places you can volunteer.