Volunteer Readers
Combining STEM and Language
What happens during a volcanic eruption? Why does a tiny rock sink, but a huge ship float? Many technical or scientific phenomena can be explained or described by exciting stories that are fun for kids and adults alike. This goal – to learn about STEM subjects while reading – is being supported by a partnership between Deutsche Telekom Stiftung and Stiftung Lesen (German Reading Foundation).
Together, the foundations are searching for volunteer readers to help kids in day-care and elementary-school age improve their language skills and simultaneously learn about science, technology and mathematics. Prospective volunteers can sign up by contacting Netzwerk Vorlesen, a network operated by Stiftung Lesen. The two foundations train volunteer readers in advance and supply them with reading and media tips. Volunteer readers are being recruited as part of Deutsche Telekom Stiftung’s international activities. The following channels are used for recruiting:
- Stiftung Lesen’s international network
- The corporate volunteering program at Deutsche Telekom’s local subsidiaries
- Other cooperation partners such as international reading initiatives, national federations and local NGOs.
- In Romania, Poland, Moldova and Albania Deutsche Telekom Stiftung cooperates with partners that teach librarians and volunteers to be volunteer readers.
