Share Your Love of Reading: Become a Volunteer Coach with the Literacy Center of West Michigan

Do you love reading? Want to make a real difference in someone’s life? Right now, more than 50 adults at the Literacy Center are waiting for a volunteer coach to help them improve their literacy skills. You don’t need any special training—just the ability to read and write English and a passion for helping others do the same. With just two hours a week, you can help someone build confidence in English, reading, and writing, opening new doors for them at work, in school, and in daily life.

Volunteer coaches come from many different backgrounds and skill sets. What they share is a wish for everyone to enjoy the benefits of increased confidence in English, reading, writing, and other essential skills. The Literacy Center team will help you the entire way. A KDL branch would be a great place to host your coaching sessions.

What Do Volunteer Coaches Do?

• Meet one-on-one with an adult learner for two hours per week.
• Help them build confidence in reading, writing, and speaking English.
• Use the Literacy Center’s free resources and support—no teaching experience needed!
• Meet at a convenient, public location—many volunteers use their local Kent District Library branch.

How to Get Started

1. Attend an Information Session – Learn more about coaching and how you can help. 
2. Complete Training – We offer both virtual and in-person training options to fit your schedule.
3. Get Matched with a Learner – We’ll pair you with an adult who is either learning English or improving their reading skills.
4. Start Coaching! – Meet with your learner regularly at a library or other community space to support their literacy journey.

The Literacy Center is presenting several informational sessions to learn more. Take the first step and help make a difference today: Register here, opens a new window.

And while you're at it, learn more about the Literacy Center's upcoming fundraiser event, Spellebration 2025, taking place Wednesday, April 23. It's sure to be a great night!