Wednesday, August 5, 2009

Tutors needed! by DL Larson

I-READ is an Illinois funded literacy grant program offered through the Secretary of State's office. They offer one-on-one training to adults who want to learn better reading skills, etc. Many of these trainers are ordinary folks like you and me who simply want to help others become readers.

As a writer, this might interest you to help promote literacy in your area. It's a simple process to become a volunteer. Most public libraries have brochures giving the major details of when and where to sign up to become a tutor. Each spring, summer and fall new programs begin, so there is still time to make a call to your library or community college to get the details to become a volunteer tutor. The start-up time is usually the first of September.

Training to become a volunteer is pretty simple. An orientation session schedule is usually offered a few times throughout the week, then classroom observation time is given before anyone is set up with their learners. After that, the volunteer tutor is paired with one person neededing and wanting further education in reading. Class time is held at local libraries or community colleges, usually once a week.

I-READ stands for Illinois Reading Education for Adult Development. I bet other states offer similar opportunities to help educate adults with reading skills. If you're looking for a worthwhile way to become involved with your community and gain a bit of good feelings by helping another, please check into being a volunteer tutor.

As writers, kicking illiteracy to the curb should be a big priority of ours. And what a rewarding way to see this problem eliminated!!

What kind of literacy program is in your area? Share with us.

Til next time ~


DL Larson

5 comments:

L. Diane Wolfe said...

Our local community college in NC has an adult literacy program and my husband volunteered as a tutor for four years.

L. Diane Wolfe
www.circleoffriendsbooks.blogspot.com
www.spunkonastick.net
www.thecircleoffriends.net

Terry Odell said...

Ah, a subject dear to my heart. I've been volunteering for the Adult Literacy League in Orlando for about 15 years, first as a tutor, and now as a trainer of new tutors.

Our local RWA chapter does a large group booksigning, "Romancing the Holidays" and a portion of the proceeds go to the League.

There's nothing more rewarding than watching someone learn to read--something everyone here probably takes for granted.

Find I program in your area. Give some of your time.

Morgan Mandel said...

I've heard of the Adult Literacy League, but I'm not sure what they're doing in my area.

Morgan Mandel
http://morganmandel.blogspot.com
http://www.morganmandel.com

Terry Odell said...

Morgan, I think every community has its own type of program, or programs. You can go to www.proliteracy.org and see if there's something where you live.

Deb Larson said...

I-READ is Illinois based, but I'm sure there are similar programs in each state!
And Terry, what a wonderful idea for your RWA chapter - great PR and helping others. A combo that's hard to beat.
Thanks to everyone for sharing - it's always great to hear how we each help out.