A SW PA Teen Outreach Community Initiative
Human Library
Real People. Real Stories. Real Connections.
The Human Library brings community adults face-to-face with teens at our Common Ground Teen Center — sharing experiences, expertise, and wisdom in an intimate, conversation-based format.
Apply to VolunteerWhat Is the Human Library?
Inspired by the global Human Library movement, our program invites community adults to volunteer as "living books" — sharing their personal stories, professional journeys, and life experiences directly with teens.
Each session is simple and powerful: a volunteer speaks for 15 minutes, then opens the floor for 15 minutes of teen questions. No lectures, no presentations — just honest, human conversation.
Sessions take place at the Common Ground Teen Center, 92 N. Main Street, Washington, PA 15301.
How It Works
Apply to Volunteer
Complete our online application telling us about yourself, your story, and what you'd like to share with teens.
Obtain Clearances
All volunteers must have current Pennsylvania child abuse clearances. We're here to help you through the process if you need guidance.
Share Your Story
Speak for 15 minutes about your topic, then take questions from teens for another 15 minutes. That's it — meaningful impact in just half an hour.
Child Abuse Clearances
The safety of our teens is our top priority. All Human Library volunteers are required to obtain Pennsylvania child abuse clearances before participating. We understand the process can feel daunting — our staff is happy to walk you through every step at no cost to you.
For clearance assistance, contact Amy Podgurski-Gough at [email protected] or call 724-222-2311.
Become a Living Book
Do you have a story worth sharing? A career, a challenge overcome, a passion, or a perspective that could open a teen's eyes to new possibilities? We'd love to hear from you.
Apply to Volunteer