Help Instill the Key to Education
One hour.
One child.
A difference that lasts.
HIKE pairs volunteer Reading Coaches with children who need one-on-one attention to catch up and keep up. No teaching experience required — just your time and a willingness to show up.
95%
of fourth graders in Phoenix Family communities read below grade level
1:1
individualized attention from a Reading Coach — every session
What Is HIKE
Reading changes everything. Volunteers make reading possible.
Children who read at grade level by third grade are dramatically more likely to graduate high school and pursue further education or a career. HIKE's Reading Labs give struggling readers the individualized coaching — and the confidence — they need to catch up.
Each session is relaxed and fun. Kids get to play with language. And they get the undivided attention of someone who showed up just for them.
New Volunteers
Find the role that fits your schedule.
Most opportunities run Monday through Thursday, 4:30–6 PM. No experience necessary.
Reading Coach
Most neededWork one-on-one with a child in the Reading Lab. Sessions focus equally on building skills and building confidence. Shifts at 4:30 PM and 5:15 PM, Mon–Thu.
All new Reading Coaches attend a short orientation first — we'll walk you through everything.
Homework Helper
Help kids work through assignments across subjects — math, science, reading, writing. A great way to volunteer regularly and get to know a group of kids well. Mon–Thu afternoons.
Special Projects
Have a skill or idea to bring? Some of our best programming has come from volunteers. If you've got something in mind — crafts, coding, music, anything — we want to hear it.
Takes about 5 minutes. We'll follow up within a few days.
Short, friendly, and practical. We'll cover everything you need.
Pick the shift that works for you and get started.
Questions? Email Brady or call 816.204.7695
Returning Volunteers
Welcome back. Here's what you need.
Get Involved
Ready to make a difference?
Whether you have an hour a week or something bigger in mind, there's a place for you in HIKE.
Questions? bmendoza@phoenixfamily.org · 816.204.7695