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Passionate About Literacy (PAL)

← Back to Youth & Family

Reading has the power to open minds, spark imagination, build confidence and that's exactly what the PAL (Passionate About Literacy) program is all about. Led by University of Arkansas students through the Volunteer Action Center, PAL connects elementary-aged children with college mentors to nurture a love of reading and support personal and academic growth.

Apply for PAL!

About PAL

The VAC (Volunteer Action Center) PAL program is a free, student-led literacy mentor program through the University of Arkansas. PAL's mission is to foster a passion for reading and promote personal and intellectual growth for elementary students through meaningful mentor relationships with college students. PAL hopes to encourage growth in literacy among students through facilitated reading activities led by mentors who empower a love of reading for future generations.

How it works

Each elementary student is matched with a college volunteer, or “PAL,” based on collaboration with our school and community partners. PALs meet with their mentees once a week to read together, talk, and engage in literacy-based activities designed to strengthen confidence and curiosity. Mentors receive monthly training to ensure they’re prepared to support their students and help them grow. Program feedback is collected regularly from both students and mentors to help us adapt and improve.

Sessions are inclusive, engaging, and thoughtfully designed to reflect diverse interests and experiences. Whether through guided activities or a shared favorite book, every moment is focused on helping students thrive.

What students gain

Through the PAL program, students...

+ Build a genuine passion for reading

+ Gain confidence in their reading abilities.

+ Grow socially and emotionally through social and emotional wellness developmentguided self-reflection, and improved literacy skills. 

+ Form lasting, encouraging relationships with college mentors

Interested?

We’d love to have your student to join us! If you have any questions, please email kidsquestions@faylib.org for more information.

Apply for PAL