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tutors needed — Student Airen with reading tutor Mr. Charles. (STAIR of Birmingham)

When Airen first began tutoring sessions with Mr. Charles, she was nervous to start her reading journey. Now, she eagerly races to the school library to read every page aloud to the person who believed in her from day one.

Moments like this happen every day thanks to STAIR of Birmingham, a local nonprofit that pairs volunteers with first- and second-graders who need extra help reaching grade-level reading.

And the need is real: Nearly three out of four Birmingham students need extra support, and over 100 are currently waiting for a tutor. Here’s how you can spark a local child’s love of reading.

Who is STAIR of Birmingham?

Through its partnership with Birmingham City Schools, STAIR provides free, one-on-one tutoring using a simple, evidence-based curriculum focused on letter combinations, rhymes and shared reading.

What’s amazing is how just a little extra time and encouragement can lead to big results. During the 2024-25 school year, STAIR students completed 6,313 tutoring sessions and saw an average 41% gain in phonics skills—all through two 45-minute sessions a week.

Volunteers make the difference

Volunteers are the heart of STAIR, helping kids gain confidence one page at a time.

Right now, more than 100 students are waiting for tutors to cheer them on and build skills that last.

With two new tutoring sites opening this month, the need for volunteers is bigger than ever—you can make a real difference in just 45 minutes, twice a week.

One thing you’ll notice about STAIR’s volunteers? They stay. Many volunteers have been with the program for five years or more.

“I decided to become a tutor because I have always loved reading. Growing up, I don’t remember seeing many men, especially men of color, as examples of avid readers. I wanted to change that perception for today’s kids.”
Robert-Christon Walker, tutor, STAIR of Birmingham

What it takes to be a reading tutor

STAIR of Birmingham volunteer — Katherine Henken-Gerhardt has been a STAIR tutor for more than 6 years. (STAIR of Birmingham)

Want to volunteer but unsure how to fit it into an already full schedule? That’s exactly why STAIR works. It’s meaningful, flexible and designed for real life.

Here’s what to know:

Time commitment: 45 minutes per session, twice a week through April
Training provided: No teaching experience needed
Curriculum: Evidence-based + easy to follow

“I was working full-time in 2019, so the ability to volunteer for just one hour a week really fit my schedule. After that first session with a second grader, I was hooked. I might not be the best tutor, but I realized every little bit helps!”
Katherine Henken-Gerhardt, tutor, STAIR of Birmingham