Writing coaches for literacy programs in NYC public schools

Volunteer with Behind the Book, a non-profit literacy organization that inspires New York City public school students to explore stories and empower their voices.

Through our rich, innovative programs, which are based on books that speak to urban youth, the authors visit high-needs Pre-K-12th-grade classrooms to guide students in creating their own writing projects. Programs are integrated into the teacher's class curricula, and adhere to Common Core standards.

You need no experience or training to volunteer. We provide advance information on your role, and hold a brief orientation right before a workshop begins. As a coach, you'll support and encourage students as they edit their writing, do research, or create artwork.

Individual workshops run an average of 90 minutes on a week day. You can sign up for any number of workshops in any number of programs, which span a few weeks. Our partner schools are in Brooklyn, lower and upper Manhattan, and the Bronx.

To join our volunteer team and receive announcements of new programs as they're scheduled throughout the school year, please submit our brief questionnaire.