Mentor Requirements

  • Be at least 16 years of age
  • A completed online application  
  • Attend a mentor orientation session (1.5 hours) 
  • Pass a criminal background check
  • Apply through CCSD or WCSD for approval to serve as a volunteer within the school
  • Volunteer for 1 hour per week on a designated day/time  
  • Transportation to and from the assigned school location  
Books and Buddies female mentor helping a young smiling girl learn to read
ℹ️ More Info on Mentoring in Clark County
ℹ️ More Info on Mentoring in Washoe County

Quotes From Books & Buddies Mentors, Parents, and Teachers

“Such an amazing program! I truly believe these children are being helped with every session! What a wonderful feeling to make an impact on these kids’ lives!”

B&B Mentor

“Books & Buddies is an amazing example of how our intervention efforts with the power of positive and consistent human connection can improve literacy through mentoring.”

Classroom Teacher

“On Books & Buddies day, my son can’t wait to go to school. His grades, his behavior, and his communication with us have improved greatly.” 

Parent

“To see their progress and to see their delight in finding and finishing a book is amazing.”

B&B Mentor

Frequently Asked Questions

    • Books & Buddies is a reading mentorship program designed to help struggling young readers improve their literacy skills. Caring volunteers are paired with students to read together and build confidence.
    • Mentors must be at least 16 years old, have reliable transportation, and commit to a minimum of one hour per week during the school year. A CCSD or WCSD background check is required, which will be covered during orientation. No prior experience is needed, just a love of books and helping kids! Training is provided during Mentor Orientation and through ongoing STWN support.
    • Mentors meet with their student once a week for one hour, typically split into two 30-minute sessions. Sessions take place at the same time each week following the CCSD and WCSD academic calendar. Volunteers can add additional hours as comfortable, but we recommend starting with one hour and increasing as your schedule allows. Accommodations will be made if you are sick or traveling, just notify your site facilitator.
    • Mentoring sessions are held at one of our Books & Buddies partner schools in Clark and Washoe County, during the school day. You’ll select your preferred location and time during the orientation process.
    • Simply notify your site facilitator if you’ll miss a session.
    • No prior experience is needed, just a love of books and helping kids! Training is provided during Mentor Orientation and through ongoing STWN support.
    • A 1.5-hour informational session. Topics: Learn about Spread the Word Nevada and the Books & Buddies program; receive mentor tips and student information; learn how to complete volunteer and background check steps; ask questions; and get ready to start mentoring. No materials are required—just bring yourself. Orientations are held at Spread the Word Nevada offices: Spread the Word Nevada Main Office – 5374 Arville Street, Las Vegas, NV 89118; Spread the Word Nevada Northern Office – 290 Gentry Way, Suite 6, Reno, NV 89502.
    • Yes! We recommend starting with one hour and increasing as your schedule allows.
    • Click the "More Info" button on this page for Clark or Washoe County to get signed up today!

Mentor Guidebook

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