United Way Suncoast

Reading All-Stars is a program where volunteers trained by United Way Suncoast read with children of Manatee County.  At least once per week, virtual reading sessions are held to support a child’s literacy development.  Review the below information and complete the application to start the process of becoming a Reading All-Stars volunteer.

Volunteers agree to the below program guidelines and will:

• Complete a Level II background check, paid for by United Way Suncoast.
• Attend the mandatory training session for the Reading All-Stars program and participate in ongoing training to improve the quality of sessions.
• Register for a minimum of one, hour-long session per week throughout the academic school year.
  • Reading All-Stars will run the length of the academic school year which can be 27-30 weeks long, depending on how COVID-19 may impact local school schedules.
• Have access to a digital device with access to the internet.
• Participate using Zoom. In addition, volunteers will:
  • Join meetings on-time. Due to the structure of the program, sessions are restricted to the pre-designated times and cannot be adjusted.
  • Have the camera option turned on to engage with the student and have a clean, appropriate background.
  • Wear appropriate clothing.
  • Not display any inappropriate behavior.
  • Provide an environment that is free from distractions.
• Notify their Reading All-Stars program coordinator a minimum of 24 hours in advance if they are unable to attend a session.

Volunteers agree to the below safety and security guidelines and will:

• Not contact participating families and/or students outside of the Reading All-Stars program time unless already participating with the student in another mentorship-focused program, i.e. Big Brothers Big Sisters.
• Report any abusive or neglectful behavior witnessed during the Reading All-Stars session. Abuse and neglect reporting protocols set forth by the state can be found here. 
• Understand that sessions are recorded for safety and quality purposes.
• Not take pictures, screenshots, or video recordings of any participating students during their session.
• Not ask students about any personal information such as address and phone number.
• Complete their background check prior to being matched with a Reading All-Stars student.

Volunteers are subject to immediate termination if found in violation of any terms and conditions listed above.