Volunteer to Read Across America with United Way!
Join United Way for an exciting day encouraging Greater Houston students to pick up a book and read for fun! Volunteering for Read Across America is an incredible opportunity to make an impact in your community by fostering a love of literacy in local children.
As a volunteer, you have an opportunity to:
- Read to a class of Kinder, 1st, or 2nd students at one of the participating schools
- Encourage the students to read for fun
- Share how you use reading in your everyday life
- Deepen your involvement in the community
Let’s get reading!
Read in a classroom at a local elementary school. United Way staff will provide all materials and training onsite.
All volunteering will be in-person this year.
- • Houser Elementary School (Conroe ISD) | 27370 Oak Ridge School Rd, Conroe, TX 77385
March 3, 2026 at 9:00 a.m.
- • Buffalo Creek Elementary School (Spring Branch ISD) | 2801 Blalock Rd, Houston, TX 77080
March 3, 2026 at 9:00 a.m.
- • Ray Daily Elementary School (Houston ISD) | 12909 Briar Forest Drive, Houston, TX 77077
March 3, 2026 at 9:00 a.m.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What will volunteers do with the students during their volunteer session?
Volunteers will join a classroom in pairs of two for 45-60 minutes. During that time, you will introduce yourself, share how reading Is important in your life and in your career, read a picture book, ask the students some comprehension questions, and complete 1-2 literacy activities. The classroom teacher will be in the classroom the entire time to assist with any issues that might arise and encourage students to engage in the conversation.
What books will I read?
United Way of Greater Houston will provide a variety of books that are appropriate for the grade level you visit, including some popular series and titles like Pete the Cat or Fly Guy!
What training and support with United Way provide ahead of time? On the project day?
United Way staff will provide a short, but comprehensive training at the beginning of the event. In addition to the classroom teachers remaining in the rooms during the reading times, United Way staff will also circulate to answer any questions that arise.
Do volunteers need to complete any waivers or background checks?
All volunteers will complete a district background check before the project. You’ll receive instructions for how to complete all your required forms via email within 1-2 days after registering.
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Sign up
Special Thanks to Our Caring Champions for Making This Event Possible
Enbridge • NOV
Bank of America • CenterPoint Energy • Comcast • Memorial Hermann
Asia Chemical Corporation • Entergy • Houston Chronicle • Zachry
PNC Bank