Adolescent Book Group Volunteer Facilitator

Do you love provoking thoughtful discussions, wrestling with deep topics in text aloud and in writing, and helping teenagers make connections to one another and the world around them? We’d love to have you volunteer to support our Adolescent Book Group!

Our Adolescent Book Group serves 200-400 teenagers in schools and after-school programs throughout San Diego each year. Many of the teens and pre-teens with whom we work are facing extraordinary life circumstances such as homelessness, violence, teen pregnancy, and impact by the justice system. Through reading new, diverse novels; engaging projects; writing workshops; and discussion sessions, learners in our Adolescent Book Group enhance their critical thinking skills, self-esteem and ability to express themselves.

Volunteer Facilitators lead bi-weekly book group discussions with young adults using Words Alive discussion guides and enrichment materials to ensure that program goals are met.

Responsibilities:

  • Read designated books prior to attending the monthly discussion group.

  • Attend bi-weekly book groups and facilitate book group discussions (60 - 90 minutes) using Words Alive discussion questions.

  • Prepare enrichment materials in advance of discussions.

  • Encourage open communication among volunteers and program participants.

  • Support an environment where all program participants feel engaged and safe.

    • Use inclusive language.

  • Communicate regularly with Words Alive staff, school sites, and other volunteers.

A great Adolescent Book Group Volunteer Facilitator:

  • Loves books and reading.

  • Is comfortable around teens and tweens.

  • Is culturally competent, and interested in bringing equity to and working with diverse communities, by fostering an inclusive environment for program participants.

  • Is reliable and consistent.

  • Is positive and affirming while maintaining professionalism.

Commitment:

  • Volunteers serve 2-5 hours per month at an assigned school site in San Diego.

  • Volunteers facilitate 60-75 minute classroom sessions every other week.

  • Additional service time is committed to reading the provided text and preparing guides.

Requirements:

  • Must be 18 years or older.

  • Must have access to a reliable form of transportation to/from school sites.

  • Must have access to and be comfortable with basic computer technology, including emails and virtual conferencing.

Onboarding and Training:  

  • Attend a 30-minute volunteer orientation and submit a volunteer application.

  • Review and sign volunteer handbook.

  • Complete a fingerprint background check.

  • Provide proof of COVID vaccination and complete COVID waiver.

  • Submit a negative TB test from within the past four years.

  • Complete a 2-hour online training about preventing, identifying, and reporting child abuse and neglect.

  • Complete a 1.5-hour training on program fundamentals and using strengths-based, empowering language.

  • Attend a 1-hour training specific to the Adolescent Book Group.