Help Us Grow Foundation Virtual Reading Program

Founded in 2008, Help Us Grow (H.U.G.) is a nonprofit dedicated to BEING THE DIFFERENCE™ in the lives of 1st–3rd grade students through reading support and positive relationship-building. We partner with schools and community organizations to help young readers build confidence, strengthen literacy skills, and develop the social foundations they need to succeed. To date, H.U.G. has served 1,250+ students across 15 schools and nonprofits — made possible by caring, consistent volunteers. When you volunteer with H.U.G., you’re not just helping a child read — you’re helping shape their future.

H.U.G. strives to promote social equality and education for all students allowing them to achieve grade level reading by completion of third grade. H.U.G. incorporates character development and confidence building components to help struggling readers become confident grade level readers. In the face of the pandemic, we chose to pivot our H.U.G. program from “traditional” H.U.G. to a “virtual” H.U.G. reading program. H.U.G. uses nationally approved curriculums (Learning Together and Education.com) to provide students with a structured and measurable curriculum. Now, students and tutors meet virtually through Zoom to practice reading together on a weekly basis. The H.U.G. mentors/tutors volunteer as little as one hour per week bonding with students on their social, emotional, and academic needs.

What Volunteers Do

As a H.U.G. volunteer, you will serve as a virtual reading tutor for an elementary student in grades 1–3. Tutors meet one-on-one with students via Zoom to practice reading, build confidence, and form positive, encouraging relationships. Using a structured, nationally approved curriculum, you’ll guide students through short, engaging reading activities while offering patience, consistency, and support. Sessions are held weekly, and volunteers commit as little as one hour per week. No teaching background is required — H.U.G. provides training, lesson materials, and ongoing support. Your role is simple but powerful: show up, read together, and help a child grow academically, socially, and emotionally.