AARP Experience Corp Mesa
AARP Experience Corps Mesa is a volunteer program that trains and places adults over 50 as literacy tutors in select Mesa Public Schools. Volunteers are trained on the AARP Foundation’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 in grades 1-4 reach grade-level benchmarks. For over 30 years, AARP 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 2026-2027 school year! Begin your volunteer journey today by attending an information session. You’ll get the chance to hear from staff and current volunteers, learn how the program works, and complete the next steps in the application process.
Sign-up for a session near you
Volunteers
To volunteer with Experience Corps Mesa, 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!
Opportunities in other Valley Cities
Experience Corps Mesa is proud to be a part of the national Experience Corps network, which includes programs in Tempe, Phoenix, and Pinal County. Click the links below to learn more about each of these programs and how to volunteer.
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 during August/September each school year. 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.