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The Power of Giving

Volunteers are the heartbeat of our services. Each year, over 1,500 volunteers give thousands of hours. They tutor math, reading, and writing; read stories; help with special events; and more.

Read on to learn more about becoming a Program Volunteer to work with children, youth, or adult literacy programs. Read the FAQs to find out more about becoming an Event Volunteer and other volunteer opportunities.

Program Volunteers

Our programs support people as they build literacy skills. These skills give more opportunities for better health, employment opportunities, and social engagement. United for Literacy currently requires volunteers for in-person, remote, and hybrid programs.

Program volunteers take part in program planning, coordination, delivery, and evaluation. It’s a great way to learn new skills and share your knowledge with others.

Programs vary from region to region. Contact your regional United for Literacy office to find out more.

No teaching experience? No problem! Program volunteers come from many different backgrounds. They are trained and supported by staff and experienced volunteers

We’re looking for people who are:
  • Open to a variety of people and experiences 
  • Have English or French language skills—and other languages are a definite asset 
  • Enthusiastic, flexible, and creative 
  • Over 14 years old

Speak with your local staff member to discuss available positions and the time commitment required.  

Programs for children and youth include:  

  • Reading circles  
  • Homework clubs  
  • Classroom support  
  • Summer reading camps  
  • Reading tents  

Programs for adults include: 
  • Literacy and basic skills support
  • High school equivalency preparation 
  • Workplace literacy support  
  • Conversation programs for new Canadians  
  • Literacy and life skills for people with developmental disabilities  


For more information, contact United for Literacy or complete the Program Volunteer Inquiry form. 

All volunteers must adhere to the  Accessibility for Individuals with Disabilities Act.    

Training and Support 

When you become a United for Literacy volunteer, you will:  

  • Have an interview to ensure that the volunteer position is the best fit for you  
  • Take part in an orientation and training (usually two-to-six hours in length)  
  • Take part in another training session (if required)  
  • Have the ongoing support of a staff member or volunteer leader   
  • Be recognized for your contribution to the community  

To become a Program Volunteer, please complete the Program Volunteer inquiry form.  

Please note, you must live in Canada to volunteer with United for Literacy.  You will receive a response email from United for Literacy. Please add us to your Safe Senders list and check your spam folder.

Program Volunteer Inquiry Form

Volunteer Inquiry Form


United for Literacy relies on volunteers for success in everything we do. Each year, our volunteers donate more than 50,000 hours to tutoring math, reading and writing; reading stories; helping with special events; and working for the United for Literacy Book Donation Program 
No teaching experience? No problem! Our volunteers come from many different backgrounds and experiences. Fill out the form below to become a volunteer tutor today!
Please note, you must be residing in Canada to volunteer with us
You will receive a response email from United for Literacy so please add us to your Safe Senders list and check your spam folder
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Please note that from January 4th 2022, anyone volunteering in-person at a 
United for Literacy program must provide proof of full COVID-19 vaccination or an exemption from a medical professional.



Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, there are group volunteering opportunities in some regions. Please contact United for Literacy to find out if anything is currently available.  

Yes, volunteers are needed for Events (Scrabble, Giller Light Bash, and others) and for other purposes. Please contact United for Literacy for more details. Please specify your region and whether you're interested in in-person or online/remote opportunities.   

The time commitment varies by region and program. Please contact United for Literacy for more details.  

  • Building new skills  

  • Making new friends  

  • Giving back to your community  

  • Knowing you’re making a difference  

  • Being part of a nationwide team that believes that everyone deserves equitable access to learning 

No, you don’t need teaching experience to be a volunteer literacy tutor. You should:  

  • Be open to a variety of people and experiences  

  • Have English or French language skills—and other languages are a definite asset  

  • Be enthusiastic, patient, flexible, and creative  

  • Be over 14 years of age   

Lifelong learning
Literacy is important not just for work and learning, but also for quality of life. Our programs for adults help increase their essential skills and fully engage in their communities.
Read more
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