Opportunities From: HandsOn Twin Cities

Become a Reader Leader Volunteer

Do you love literature and poetry, meaningful conversation and connection? Become a Reader Leader and help bring Shared Reading experiences to your community.

Reader Leaders are trained volunteers who facilitate small group reading sessions where stories and poems are read aloud and explored together. These sessions create welcoming spaces where people connect through literature, reflection, and conversation — no prior preparation or reading required for participants.

What You’ll Do

Facilitate welcoming Shared Reading groups in community settings such as libraries, senior living communities, recovery programs, schools, and community centers

Read short stories and poems aloud during sessions

Encourage thoughtful, respectful discussion

Help create a supportive space where everyone can participate at their comfort level

Build connection and community through shared literary experiences

Training and Support Provided

You don’t need to be a teacher or literature expert to volunteer. Reader Leaders receive 24 hours of comprehensive training that includes:

Proven Shared Reading facilitation techniques

Guidance on selecting engaging and accessible texts

Strategies for supporting diverse participants

Ongoing mentorship, resources, and a supportive volunteer network

Who Should Volunteer

Reader Leaders are people who:

Enjoy reading and discussing literature

Are good listeners and value different perspectives

Care about community connection and arts access

Want to make a meaningful difference through volunteering

Volunteer Impact

Reader Leaders help expand access to the arts and create spaces where participants can experience connection, reflection, and enjoyment through literature. Many participants describe Shared Reading as a rare opportunity to feel heard, connected, and inspired.

If you’re passionate about literature and community, we invite you to join us as a Reader Leader.