For immediate release December 8, 2016:
Douglas County Libraries (DCL) is looking for volunteer tutors for its English as a Second Language (ESL) program. The majority of students in this program, part of DCL’s Adult Literacy Program, are adult English-language learners with skill levels ranging from beginner to advanced.
In this learner-centered program, volunteers and their students work together to establish goals that fit the lives and interests of each unique student. Tutors are encouraged to build on each student’s current wisdom, interests and knowledge to help them communicate more effectively and confidently.
Tutors are matched with students who have compatible availability and skills, and are not required to speak the language of their students. Ideally, volunteer tutors have a passion for learning and can meet their students at one of DCL’s libraries during normal operating hours for at least one hour per week for six months. Tutors must be at least 21 years old and have a high school diploma or equivalent and preferably some college. The need for tutors is highest at DCL’s Highlands Ranch, Lone Tree and Parker branches. Orientations for new volunteers are offered every other month, with optional training and workshops available periodically.
“English-language learners in our program have gained the confidence to enter the workforce and re-enter their professional careers,” says Tiffany Curtin, adult literacy specialist at DCL. “Some have gained the confidence to order meals on their own for the first time; become empowered to meet with their children’s teachers; and gained the confidence to speak in their children’s classrooms,” she adds.
DCL also seeks tutors to help adults working on completing their high school equivalency diplomas, such as the GED or TASC, as well as native English speakers who are learning to read and write.
Interested volunteers can register for an Adult Literacy Program Volunteer Orientation through VolunteerConnectDC.org. For more information, visit DCL.org/Volunteer or call 303-791-7323.
Douglas County Libraries is a passionate advocate for literacy and lifelong learning.