LiteracyCorps: Lit Summer Member
Literacy Mid-South
Location
Memphis, Tennessee
Salary
$1,000 / YEAR
Quick overview
Members will lead and support daily literacy sessions for elementary students (K-5) by delivering guided lesson plans focused on phonics, fluency, and comprehension. Responsibilities also include facilitating interactive activities, supporting book distributions, conducting student assessments, and assisting host sites with logistics.
Requirements summary
Applicants must possess a high school diploma or equivalent and meet all AmeriCorps eligibility requirements, with preferred experience working with children or an interest in education or social impact. The program welcomes applicants from various backgrounds, including college students, recent graduates, and aspiring educators.
Job description
LiteracyCorps
- Lit Summer Member AmeriCorps State & National |
- Abbreviated-Time (100
- Hours)
- Host
- Organization: Literacy Mid-South
Position Details
Field
- AmeriCorps
- State &
- National
- Service
- Term
- Type:
- Abbreviated-Time (100
- Hours)
- Start
- Date:
- May 26, 2026
- End
- Date:
- July 24, 2026
- Schedule: 3–5 hours/day, 3–5 days/week (~15 hours/week)
- Flexible, member- and partner-set schedule between 8:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
- Service
- Locations: Memphis & Shelby County, TN (libraries, community centers, parks, churches)
Number of positions: 30 Age Requirement: 17+
Two-Line Summary
Make a meaningful difference this summer by helping children grow as confident readers. Serve in free summer camps and community programs across Memphis and Shelby County, leading engaging, literacy-building activities that spark a lifelong love of reading.
About LiteracyCorps
LiteracyCorps is an AmeriCorps program that provides valuable service opportunities for members who are passionate about improving literacy in Memphis.
The program provides individuals with the opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of families and children by working with community organizations, schools, and other literacy partners.
LiteracyCorps is the AmeriCorps initiative of Literacy Mid-South, designed to advance literacy equity across our region. Summer Members work directly with elementary students in low-to-no-cost summer programs to prevent summer learning loss and strengthen foundational reading skills through structured, evidence-based interventions.
Member Impact & Responsibilities
LiteracyCorps Summer Members play a critical role in advancing youth literacy outcomes and supporting community-based learning environments. Responsibilities include: Leading and supporting daily literacy sessions for students in grades K–5 Delivering guided lesson plans designed to build phonics, fluency, comprehension, and reading confidence Facilitating interactive read-alouds, phonics games, and small-group reading activities Supporting book distributions and literacy engagement initiatives Conducting student assessments and tracking reading engagement metrics Assisting host sites with logistics and youth engagement strategies Participating in required orientation, check-ins, and structured reflection activities
Members are expected to model professionalism, reliability, and a commitment to equity while serving as positive role models for youth.
Training & Professional Development
Members receive comprehensive preparation and support, including
Pre-Service Training (May 26–30)
Literacy strategies, child engagement techniques, AmeriCorps policies, and service expectations Site-specific orientation at assigned host location Ongoing coaching, performance feedback, and reflective learning opportunities
This structured development approach aligns with best practices in volunteer management and youth development, providing both accountability and growth.
Benefits
$1,000 Living Allowance (distributed throughout the summer term) AmeriCorps Segal Education Award upon successful completion May be used toward qualifying student loans or future tuition expenses Hands-on experience in literacy instruction, youth engagement, and community service Exposure to nonprofit program operations and partnership development
Skills & Experience Gained
Foundational literacy instruction techniques Group facilitation and classroom management Community partnership collaboration Data-informed service delivery and outcome tracking Professional communication and leadership skills Insight into literacy equity and Memphis-area educational needs
Qualifications
Required: High school diploma or equivalent Must meet AmeriCorps eligibility requirements
Preferred (not required): Experience working with children Interest in education, social impact, or youth development
We welcome applications from
College students, recent graduates, and gap-year participants Aspiring, current, and retired educators and youth-serving professionals Memphis-area residents committed to community service Individuals from all backgrounds; bilingual candidates are strongly encouraged to apply
Our Commitment
Literacy Mid-South is committed to fostering an inclusive service environment grounded in respect, equity, and opportunity. We believe literacy is a fundamental human right and welcome members who share our passion for strengthening communities through education.
If you’re ready to serve, lead, and make a measurable impact this summer, we encourage you to apply and join LiteracyCorps.
Discrimination Clause
This program is available to all, without regard to race, color, national origin, disability, age, sex, political affiliation, or, in most instances, religion. It is also unlawful to retaliate against any person who, or organization that, files a complaint about such discrimination. In addition to filing a complaint with local and state agencies that are responsible for resolving discrimination complaints, you may bring a complaint to the attention of the Corporation for National and Community Service. If you believe that you or others have been discriminated against, or if you want more information, contact:
Office of Civil Rights and Inclusiveness
Corporation for National and Community Service 250 E Street, SW Washington, DC 20024 (800) 833-3722 (TTY and reasonable accommodation line) (202) 565-3465 (FAX); eo@cns.gov (email)
Benefits
- Living Allowance
- AmeriCorps Segal Education Award