As one of our basic literacy students said, "Without the help of Literacy Volunteers I know where I'd be -- sitting on the couch staring at a brick wall. Literacy Volunteers has given me the tools to break through that barrier, and for that I thank them."

LVM volunteers help adults acquire the literacy and English language skills that empower them to realize their goals. By improving their basic skills through tutoring, adults are better able to meet life's challenges, be self-sufficient, provide for their families, help their children with homework, read a daily newspaper, enjoy more independence and gain self-confidence.

Prospective volunteers attend a volunteer orientation (2 hours) and successfully complete a tutor training in either basic literacy or ESOL (18 hours each) prior to being certified and matched to work with a student. Volunteers then work one-to-one with a student for 2 hours per week for a minimum of 9 to 12 months at mutually convenient times and places in the community. Lessons are student-centered and individualized so that an adult is learning skills building on individual strengths in the context of what is relevant, interesting and important to the student. All tutoring services are free and confidential. After being matched, volunteers and students receive ongoing support from LVM's professional staff. Support includes newsletters, inservice trainings and other professional development opportunities, special recognition events, a reference and lending library, and personal assistance whenever needed.

Previous teaching experience or knowledge of another language is not required to be a tutor. A volunteer must successfully complete the orientation and training, and have a high school diploma or its equivalent. A volunteer should be able to create a flexible, responsive, non-threatening and respectful learning experience, have an ability to work with diverse groups and possess a sensitivity to the struggles of adult learners, especially those with limited literacy and English language skills. When asked about the most important qualities for a tutor, LVM's Boston students responded that patience and a sense of humor were vital to whether or not the tutoring was successful.

This opportunity is sponsored by: Literacy Volunteers Of Massachusetts

We need volunteers who are free at these times

Evenings Weekends Weekdays Weekly

Adults (26-54) Individual Adults (55+) Young Adults (18-25)

Contact Person:
Catherine Ward, Volunteer Coordinator, (phone), (email)

View all agency contacts

Address:

15 Court Square, Suite 540 Boston, MA 02108 (See a map)

Directions:

Take the MBTA (Green or Blue Lines) to the Government Center stop. Exit the T stop and look for the Starbucks on the corner of Court Street. The Starbucks has a steaming, gold tea kettle above the door. Walk up Court Street. Take the second right onto Court Square. LVM is at 15 Court Square, Suite 540 on the 5th floor. Take the MBTA (Orange Line) to State Street. Exit the T stop and walk to the traffic light at the corner where Washington Street, State Street and Court Street meet. Walk up Court Street toward Government Center. Take the first left onto Court Square. LVM is at 15 Court Square - Suite 540 on the 5th floor.   Nearest Metro/Subway Stop: Government Center,   Walk distance (in minutes): 2 For maps or information, please see http://www.mbta.com

This opportunity can also be performed in these locations:

Cities:		Allston Arlington Boston Cambridge Somerville
Counties:		Suffolk

Miscellaneous Information

Does this opportunity serve youth in After-School programs?
	No
Is this opportunity available to family volunteers? (adults and children ages 12-17)?
	No
Is this opportunity a highly skilled volunteer opportunity?
	No
Is this opportunity available to youth ages 12-17, unaccompanied by an adult?
	No
Would this opportunity be appropriate for corporate groups?
	No