AARP Foundation Experience Corps Mesa Seeking Volunteers

AARP Foundation Experience Corps Mesa Seeking Volunteers

The City of Mesa is seeking volunteers age 50 and older for AARP Foundation Experience Corps Mesa, a community-based volunteer program that helps kindergarten through fourth-grade students become confident readers.

Since January 2024, Experience Corps Mesa has served more than 500 Mesa Public School students and volunteers have contributed more than 12,000 hours of service. During the 2025-26 school year, more than 90% of participating students improved their reading fluency. Research shows that students who read proficiently by the end of third grade had a 96% on-time high school graduation rate, compared with 84% among students who had not yet reached reading proficiency.

"Experience Corps represents the very best of what a community can accomplish when generations come together in support of children," said Dr. Matt Strom, Superintendent of Mesa Public Schools. "Every student deserves to be known, encouraged and given the opportunity to become a confident reader because reading is the foundation for success in every subject and every future pathway. We are grateful for our partnership with the City of Mesa and AARP Foundation as we continue expanding this program and invite more retirees to share their time, wisdom and experience with the next generation."

During the 2026-27 school year, Experience Corps Mesa will expand to 12 Mesa Public School sites, including two schools that are new to the program, with more than 70 volunteers working with a projected 250 students in grades K-4.

"Public service has been the foundation of my life, and I know the impact one person can have when they choose to serve others," said Mesa Mayor Mark Freeman. "AARP Foundation Experience Corps gives our retirees another opportunity to answer that call by helping young students develop the reading skills they need to succeed. Mesa has always been a community where people step up, give back and invest in the next generation. By sharing their time, experience and wisdom, these volunteers are strengthening our schools, our families and the future of our city."

"AARP Foundation Experience Corps brings generations together, empowering older adults to share their experience and compassion with young learners while helping students build the literacy skills to help them thrive," said Mioshi Moses, AARP Foundation Vice President of Volunteer Programs. "Our Experience Corps volunteers are essential to this work, and we're proud to team up with the City of Mesa and Mesa Public Schools to bring committed volunteers into classrooms where they can make a meaningful difference in the lives of elementary students."

To qualify, volunteers must be at least 50 years of age, have earned a high school diploma or GED and must pass a background check process with Mesa Public Schools.

All Experience Corps volunteers receive extensive training and on-site support. Experience Corps Mesa is holding informational sessions for prospective volunteers to learn about the program, complete an application and interview with City staff. Those interested in volunteering are encouraged to sign up before the final session on Aug. 19.