Our Mission
Parentis Foundation seeks to address the needs of children unable to read proficiently by the end of third grade: a major contributor to poverty.
Our mission is to elevate children's literacy through the mentorship of older adults. By pairing the wisdom and experience of seniors with the curiosity of young minds, we inspire a lifelong love for learning. Together, we create a brighter future where generations unite to explore the world of words.
Literacy is the gateway to academic success
Did you know? A child is four times more likely to not graduate high school if they are unable to read proficiently by the 4th grade. By providing children with the guidance to grow and improve their literacy skills, our volunteers open the door to a limitless future.
Our Impact
We make a positive impact on children, volunteers, and the community.
1,100+
CHILDREN SERVED
60% improvement in critical literacy skills seen in children who receive 1:1 literacy support by Parentis Foundation volunteer tutors.
30,000+
1:1 TUTORING SESSIONS
92% of the tutors reported that the program increased their sense of purpose in life.
50,000+
HOURS OF TUTORING
We've received 100% program satisfaction from all our Program Partners across Orange County.
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Thanks to all of you for the wonderful service you provide, not only to the kids, but also to us seniors who are receiving the beautiful gift of being useful and productive and engaged during our ‘sunset years. You cannot imagine how much happier I am now than I was before I found out about tutoring!
- Shiela, Parentis Foundation Volunteer Tutor
I am so grateful that I have decided to return to the reading/mentoring program. It’s clear that over the last three years of my absence, as the program has expanded to cover more sites and include more children, you’ve been able to find and hire talented, like-minded people to support its growth. I look forward to the opening of the program in October in Huntington Beach. A heartfelt thank you for all you do.
- Shirley, Parentis Foundation Volunteer
ABOUT ONE KIND WORD
A new initiative that creates a safe and secure learning environment for students to understand how words matter, to express themselves, and embrace the unique differences among their friends, family, and community.
PROGRAM FOCUS AREAS
Increased Sense of Purpose
Volunteer tutors age 50+ benefit from training and ongoing support that strengthens their natural mentoring abilities, builds their confidence, and fosters a sense of purpose that helps ensure their success as tutors – and the success of the children as readers.
Health Benefits for Older Adults
Older adults who volunteer for a significant number of hours each week gain important physical health, brain health, and community engagement outcomes as a result of their participation.
Improved Confidence in Technology
Each of our volunteers is trained and supported in learning several technological services in order to tutor virtually.
Get Involved
ARE YOU A SCHOOL OR AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAM?
Learn more about how to bring or Reading Intervention Programs to your school or after school program. Contact us to set up a program consultation.
BECOME A Volunteer
Share the gift of reading and help change a child’s future!
Experience Corps Orange County is currently recruiting volunteer tutors for the 2023-2024 school year. Tutors, age 50 and over, bring a willingness to share their experience, time, and love of reading. Tutors typically work with 2-3 children, grades first through fifth, meeting with them individually twice each week for a 30-minute session, either in-person or virtually via Zoom. Comprehensive training is provided.
Make a Donation
Your tax-deductible donation means so much to the youth we serve and our volunteer mentors. Please consider making a meaningful gift, today.