We need you to be a “Reading Buddy”

School is starting and the Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) is looking for volunteers to be involved with the “Reading Buddies” program again this year. We need you to be one of the volunteers that will read at local Head Start and preschool centers on a weekly basis and help preschool children begin their journey to be better readers and students in the future.

Reading is the cornerstone of all learning for children and it must start early, even reading a few pages helps young children learn new words, phrases and strengthens their grammar. By reading regularly with children in the “Reading Buddies” program you will be investing your time and talents to help young children and families.

Come and be a Reading Buddy”

• Commit to volunteer a minimum of one visit per week – but you can schedule as much time as you have to give with the teacher after you begin.
• Prior experience with reading stories aloud is helpful, but not necessary. We provide training so that you will have the skills you need.
• Be aged 55+ and have transportation to the local preschool/Head Start center.
• Must be willing to have a background check (provided free) and a physical form completed by your doctor - these are requirements from the state to volunteer in a child care center.

The local Kids Learning Place Education and Child Care Centers has invited RSVP to help them find community volunteers to read with children in the local Head Start and preschool classrooms.

If you live in Darke County and love being with children this program could be just right for you. The Kids Learning Place centers are located in Greenville, Bradford and Union City. Research shows that the sooner a child can develop a love of reading the better; and YOU can be that person to help these young children learn to read, be kindergarten ready and have a brighter future.

It’s easy to get started, just call Ahby Mangen our volunteer recruiter at 937-548-8002 or email rsvpdk@councilonruralservices.org talk with her about this and all the volunteer opportunities available.

For more information about the programs of Council on Rural Services … programs for innovative learning, check the Web site at www.councilonruralservices.org.