Every week, thousands of mentors help the students of the Pasadena ISD HOSTS program overcome the biggest challenge they face — reading.

HOSTS (Helping One Student to Succeed) is a highly-structured one-on-one mentoring program designed to help students improve reading, writing and problem-solving skills.

Because reading is crucial to a student’s success in all subject areas, Pasadena ISD Superintendent Kirk Lewis said mentors are needed to help lay the reading groundwork for students experiencing difficulty in reading.

“A number of our students struggle in reading,” said Lewis. “Their unique circumstances create a barrier to learning which can only be overcome when teachers and volunteers work together to provide the extra help needed to build that strong reading foundation. HOSTS mentors make the difference, and we truly appreciate the people who give of their time to help our students improve their reading skills.”

Pasadena ISD’s HOSTS program is the largest in the state with more than 2,000 annual volunteers. For 14 years, business and community volunteers have continued to help develop reading skills and excellence among elementary school students.

“Our HOSTS volunteers have a tremendous impact on the students they mentor,” said Gardens Elementary School’s assistant principal Vicki Lenio. “They demonstrate commitment and dedication by serving as role models, as well as teach and encourage students to meet challenges and strive for excellence. A little love can go a long way to inspiring our youth.”

HOSTS is currently offered at 19 Pasadena ISD schools, and being a part of the program is easy for volunteers. After attending an orientation for information and training, each individual can decide what day they mentor and how much time they spend with their HOSTS student(s). Most volunteers give from 30 minutes to one hour each week.

Not only do the HOSTS children continue to see their reading skills shine, but their self-confidence also continues to grow through the bonds created with their mentors and through continued encouragement provided by their community.

“HOSTS works because our mentors willingly give their time and energy to help the children of our school district,” said Lewis. “Nothing is more powerful than helping a young child read and understand the written word. Nothing means more to the future success of our community, and we encourage you to come be a part of it.”

To become a Pasadena ISD HOSTS mentor and to find a campus near you, contact the district’s HOSTS coordinator Ginger Lay at 713-740-0051 or e-mail her at glay@pasadenaisd.org.