Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ Contents
What is KOREH L.A.’s mission?
To support children’s literacy through a variety of volunteer-based and corporate-sponsored programs to ensure that all the children of Los Angeles can read – and succeed.
Do I have to be Jewish to volunteer?
No. KOREH L.A. is non-sectarian.
How does the program work?
KOREH L.A. trains volunteer reading partners to work with LAUSD Pre- K-5th grade students to help enhance their reading skills and foster a love of reading. Volunteers work one-on one with children identified by their teachers as reluctant readers for one hour per week.
How can I get involved?
All participants must attend one three-hour training session before they can begin volunteering. KOREH L.A. staff will then work to match you with a student according to your schedule and location preferences.
What does the training consist of?
Training sessions include an overview on different learning and reading styles and the basic components of literacy. The session also covers practical issues such as how to choose books, tips on working with children, getting started on the first day and literacy games. Training sessions are led by Miryam Jannol, the President and Owner of Workplace Literacy Associates.
What is the time commitment after I have been trained?
One hour per week for the remainder of the school year.
Do I work with the same child every week?
Yes. Volunteers work one-on-one with the same student every week.
Can I work with the same student next year?
Most likely. Let us know and we will do our best to match you with the same child.
How old do I have to be to volunteer for KOREH L.A.?
Volunteers must be at least 13 years old or in the 7th grade.
Where does the volunteering take place?
All volunteering takes place at KOREH L.A. partner school sites. Please visit our map program to find the school closest to you. We will do our best to place you at your first choice.
Can I receive community service credit through volunteering with KOREH L.A?
Yes. Please call the KOREH L.A. office at (323) 761-8153 to discuss this with a staff member.
Can I volunteer with a friend?
Most likely, if you both request to volunteer at the same place and time. You will each be assigned your own student.
If I am a returning volunteer, do I need to attend another training session?
No, but you are welcome to attend a training as a refresher course at any time. However, if it has been at least three years since you last volunteered it is mandatory to attend a training session before you begin.
Where should I go on my first day of volunteering?
Please check in at the school’s main office. Tell them the name of the student you are meeting with and his or her room number (which you will receive in advance) and a staff member will direct you where to go.
Where will I be working with the student?
This varies from school to school, but typically it is in the library, a vacant classroom, or benches outside.
Who is my contact person at KOREH L.A. throughout the school year?
Your primary contact at KOREH L.A. will be an AmeriCorps fellow who is performing a year of service. After your training session, the AmeriCorps fellow who oversees your school will contact you and remain your liaison for the remainder of the academic year.
Who is my contact person at the school where I volunteer?
It varies at each school. Often it is a librarian, intervention coordinator, or other administrator. You will be given the name of the contact before you begin volunteering.
Can I donate books to KOREH L.A.?
KOREH L.A. gladly accepts new or like-new book donations to distribute to children in need. If your books show more visible signs of love and experience, we will refer you to an appropriate donation center.
What other activities/events does KOREH L.A. hold throughout the school year?
KOREH L.A. hosts several yearly events including enrichment seminars for volunteers, a bookmark decorating competition for students, and a holiday book wrapping event.
What is the benefit of finding KOREH L.A. on Facebook and Twitter?
By following us on Facebook and Twitter you will stay informed of top national and local education news stories as well as important KOREH L.A. and Jewish Federation announcements. You will also receive children’s book recommendations.
What does it mean to be a Title I school?
Title I refers to Title I of the National Elementary and Secondary Education Act, and is a set of programs set up by the Department of Education to distribute funding to schools and school with a high percentage of students from low-income families.
