AARP Experience Corp Mesa

AARP Experience Corps Mesa is a volunteer program that places adults who are over 50 to serve as literacy tutors in Mesa Public Schools. Volunteers are trained on AARP’s evidence-based curriculum, which targets struggling readers in second and third grade, and given extensive on-site support as they engage students in short, one-on-one tutoring sessions. Tutoring focuses on fluency and helping students reach grade-level benchmarks. In more than 20 cities around the country, Experience Corps has improved reading and behavioral outcomes for students, and positively impacted the lives of older adults through social connections and meaningful volunteer service.

Interested in Volunteering?

We are recruiting new volunteers for the 2025-2026 school year! All volunteers must attend an in-person or virtual information session as part of the application process. Spots are limited - sign-up for a session near you.

Volunteers

• To volunteer with Experience Corps, volunteers must meet the following requirements.
  • Aged 50 or older
  • Have at least a high school diploma or GED
  • Pass a criminal background check
  • Pass a basic literacy screening
  • Attend 25 hours of annual training
  • Commit to volunteer at least five hours a week during the school year

Application Process

• To become an Experience Corps Mesa volunteer, applicants must attend an information session, fill out an online application, and complete an interview with Experience Corps Mesa Staff. Volunteers must also pass a background check performed by Mesa Public Schools to be cleared to volunteer. Don’t delay - fill out your online application today!

Frequently Asked Questions

I’m not over 50 years old, but I still want to volunteer. How can I help? 
Not over 50 but still want to volunteer in your community? Check out other volunteer opportunities or our Read On Mesa partners!  

When and where does tutoring happen?
All tutoring happens during the school day at select Mesa Public Schools campuses. Volunteers will be assigned a schedule of tutoring twice a week for approximately two hours each day (i.e., Tuesday/Thursday 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.) and schedules vary by site. Selection of school sites and site specific schedules will be finalized in fall of 2025. Program staff take volunteer availability and location preference into account when making placements.  

I don’t have any experience teaching. Can I still be a tutor with Experience Corps Mesa? 
Yes! Experience Corps provides comprehensive training to all volunteers, including a two-day training on the structured session. There is also on-site support from program staff and experienced volunteers. All you need is a love of reading and a desire to help!  

I want my child to receive tutoring from Experience Corps. Can I sign them up? 
Students are selected by school staff to participate in Experience Corps. For support with your child’s academics, contact their school.