Adult Literacy Tutor
You’ll partner with someone looking for help with their English reading or spelling or speaking skills. You meet with your partner on a weekly basis for about two hours at a location (like a library) that is convenient for both of you. Some lesson planning during the week is necessary, and a Literacy Center staff member is available to assist you with questions along the way. The Literacy Center provides all of the training necessary to start working with an adult learner.
- Commitment
- 2 hours/week for 6+ months
- Requirements
- 18+; pass background check; no prior ESL or teaching experience required
- Neighborhood
- Varies
- Location
- Mutually convenient location with student
-
1120 Monroe Ave NW #240
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Is This the Right Fit for Me?
You are interested in getting to know someone over a period of time. You’re up for making a serious commitment to someone so that they can improve their reading skills and rely on you to be there. You love the idea of thinking of “real life” scenarios to work or think through with your student. (Or you’re eager to hear what others have tried!) You don’t have to have teaching experience; just a willingness to learn basic literacy techniques.
About Literacy Center of West Michigan
The Literacy Center of West Michigan serves adult native speakers and English language learners who read below a 9th grade level through a multi-faceted approach to improving literacy skills. They accomplish this mission by bringing about a just and vibrant Grand Rapids through a multifaceted approach to improving literacy skills.
What Others are Saying
"I wanted to volunteer in a one-on-one capacity, and I love reading. The well-organized training program helped me learn and practice teaching techniques with other tutors so I didn't go into the experience unprepared. I worked with my learner for two years, and it was great to hear her share stories with me from work or social settings where other people noticed her improvement. We also incorporated daily activities like ordering from a restaurant menu, grocery shopping together, and reading through ingredients. My learner was eager to learn and made it a priority! Teaching was a very gratifying experience."
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Contact the Organization
If you’re ready to ask some questions and get started, contact the Literacy Center of West Michigan directly.
What to Expect
Check out the schedule of orientations, then register for the one that works best for your schedule. There, you can learn more and then pick up a volunteer application. If you choose to begin, a ten-hour training workshop is offered several times a year with a variety of available times: weekdays, evenings, or weekends. Registration for training workshops is encouraged.