Calgary Reads Volunteers are the Backbone to Reading Success Stories

With up to 550 volunteers at times, Calgary Reads boasts a passionate community spirit that supports children and the love of literacy. Without volunteers, Calgary’s at-risk early readers would not have the opportunity to develop a love of books, a joy of reading and a confidence in themselves that has proven lifelong impacts. Calgary Reads volunteers can enjoy many roles, in particular tutoring in one of the Calgary Board of Education schools we support, aiding grade 1 and 2 students.

One of the greatest joys of being a tutor is sharing the read aloud experience. If you are interested in this, or any other volunteer opportunity, please contact Colleen Ferguson, Director – Volunteers at cdferguson@cbe.ab.ca or browse to our Volunteer page for additional information.

Why Is Reading Aloud to Children So Important?

Reading aloud is more than a fun way to pass family time. It furthers a child’s literacy growth.

The benefits of reading aloud include:

• It enhances a love of reading.
• It expands your child’s imagination.
• It strengthens listening and comprehension skills.
• It develops reading skills.
• It helps your child acquire vocabulary, background knowledge and an understanding of sentence patterns.
• It gives your child an opportunity to bond with you through the shared enjoyment of reading a good book together.
• Children learn about the world that opens up to them through reading.

As a volunteer with Calgary Reads, as a parent, as a teacher… remember to read aloud every day! And don’t stop when your child becomes a reader themselves. Reading together is a rewarding and success-building experience at any age.