Tech Savvy Volunteer Readers

Lighthouse Guild is the leading not-for-profit healthcare organization dedicated to addressing and preventing vision loss. Our mission is to provide exceptional services that inspire people who are visually impaired to attain their goals. With Lighthouse Guild, people who are at risk for, or affected by, vision loss have access to all the resources necessary to lead full, independent, and productive lives. We provide services, research and education, and advocate to help people with low vision and blindness. Our vision is a world in which no person is limited by their visual capacity.

The Reading Service Program connects a visually impaired person with a reading volunteer who helps accessing otherwise often inaccessible written and electronic materials. Some clients are unable to travel to the Lighthouse Guild Manhattan office so we seek volunteers from every borough to support those clients who may need office support for their place of business and for clients with limited mobility or other issues that keep them homebound.

Position: Reading Service – Tech Savvy Volunteer Reader

Location: 250 West 64th Street, 6th Floor New York, NY 10023

Opportunity Summary:

Today reading means screens, emails, and apps – but for people who are blind or have low vision, even simple tasks can feel impossible. We’re looking for technology competent seniors and caring adults to guide clients through emails, online shopping and using smart devices. Volunteers will read the materials provided by the clients. In addition to reading, volunteers may be asked to conduct internet searches and otherwise support a client’s personal reading needs. Volunteers will either be asked to meet clients at the Lighthouse Guild, library or some other mutually agreed upon location. In special cases where clients are homebound due to medical reasons, a volunteer may read in the client’s home.

Position Responsibilities:

• Travel to the client’s homes or other location.
• Read a variety of different materials that the clients provide.
• Complete forms and documents as necessary and/or conduct Internet searches etc.
• Some positions may involve assistance with simple tasks that support the reading function.

Requirements:

• • High School to College level reader required.
  • Ethical character, trustworthy and reliable.
  • Strong reading voice.
  • Able to read for an extended period.
  • Strong commitment to service required.
  • Must be able to make a two-hour time commitment each session.
  • Smart Tech Competent with knowledge or experience of using digital devices.
  • Some positions may involve assistance with simple tasks that support the reading function.

(Note: Some proficiency with internet use and/or smart devices may be needed)

Qualifications:

1. 1. Strong verbal communication skills.
   2. Good interpersonal skills with the ability to engage with clients and volunteers.
   3. Able to handle confidential information.
   4. Able to arrive on time and be ready to work.
   5. A strong customer service orientation, good interpersonal skills.
   6. Basic skills/knowledge using digital or smart devices
   • (smartphones, iPads, laptops, tablets, etc.)

Details of the Opportunity: Please note that reading is an on-going opportunity. Volunteers must be available at minimum 2 hours once a week, for at least 6 months. All volunteers must complete the supplemental volunteer application prior to being assigned.

Interested volunteers should:

• • Email reading@lighthouseguild.org with your availability for a conference call
  • Or call Reading Services at (646) 874-8683 for a preliminary conversation

Complete a Lighthouse Guild volunteer onboarding process and supplemental reading volunteer application before assignment.