Their activities provide a direct benefit to children that is valued by the school or community based organization. Members are assigned to serve with local sponsors in rural and urban areas in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands. Over the years, more than 100,000 committed individuals have joined forces with 12,000 local sponsors, public agencies, and nonprofit groups to strengthen communities across the nation. Applicants must be at least 18 years old, and there is no upper age limit. During their term of service, members receive skills training, health benefits, loan deferment, and a living allowance.
Members also have the option of purchasing life insurance.
The Coordinator for America Reads is Molly Barnard.