Volunteer
At SMART Reading, we believe that reading is the gateway to learning and opportunity for Oregon’s kids. Every day we mobilize our statewide community of volunteers to make a direct impact on kids through shared reading sessions and new books to keep. Because the simple magic and joy of a shared book can change a child’s life trajectory.
Read on to learn about our volunteer opportunities! Want to see what SMART programs are near you? Check out this map!
Note: We have stopped placing new volunteer Readers and Site Coordinators for the 2024-25 school year. However, we accept volunteer applications year-round and our team will be in touch about summer and/or fall volunteer opportunities in your community!
Check out our volunteer opportunities!
This is a weekly, one-hour volunteer commitment at a local elementary school or preschool. Volunteer Readers provide literacy support to kids and help foster a love of reading through fun, child-guided reading sessions.
At some sites, Readers read one-on-one with students, and at other sites, a volunteer leads an interactive read-aloud for a classroom.
After applying, SMART Reading staff will work with the volunteer to find a school placement that works for their location and schedule. All volunteers complete an online orientation and on-site training.
Click here to read the full position description.
This leadership position is the on-site lead for SMART Reading at a site (an elementary school or preschool). Site Coordinators work with SMART Reading staff to train Volunteer Readers and oversee the program at their assigned site throughout the year, including facilitating book giveaways to students and acting as the liaison with the school.
All Site Coordinators receive training and ongoing support from staff. The commitment is typically 2-8 hours per week depending on the size of the program.
Click here to read the full position description.
Help restore used books!
The Children’s Book Bank at SMART Reading offers one-time and flexible volunteer opportunities to help restore and distribute gently used children’s books at our warehouse in Portland.
Click here to learn more.
Note: Currently, individuals interested in volunteering with the Children’s Book Bank at SMART Reading do not need to fill out the SMART volunteer application below. You’ll find information about Book Bank volunteer sign-ups here.
We're also beginning to expand the Book Bank to other communities in Oregon. To learn about opportunities to get involved in your community, contact your local office.
