Tutor with us!

Become a volunteer adult literacy tutor

The West TO Literacy Collaborative are currently seeking dedicated volunteers aged 19 and over to support adult literacy learners to develop their reading, writing, numeracy, and digital literacy skills in west-end Toronto. We welcome folks from diverse backgrounds and life experiences.


Our programs take a learner-centered approach to literacy where learners have the opportunity to set their own learning goals and develop important skills. Through the tutor’s support and encouragement, learners gain a greater sense of accomplishment and confidence enabling them to become more involved in shaping their communities.


Volunteer tutors are matched with adult learners and meet one-to-one every week for two hours. At this time due to COVID-19, tutor matches are meeting virtually or via phone.


We are also looking for

Individuals who have had experience or an interest in working with English language learners (ELL or “ESL” learners) and learners experiencing barriers to learning due to violence, mental health and/or social isolation.


Qualifications

  • An interest in literacy, adult education and community development

  • Strong listening, speaking and writing skills in English

  • Patient, friendly, punctual and reliable

  • Understanding of issues faced by marginalized communities

  • Have an open mind and believe that all people can learn

  • Practice social justice and anti-oppression principles


Responsibilities

  • Create a supportive and encouraging learning environment for learners

  • Support the learner as they develop short- and long-term goals

  • Plan and implement level-appropriate and engaging lessons based on the goals and interests of the learner

  • Complete weekly reports and participate in monthly check-ins with staff


Time commitment

  • Attend virtual volunteer orientation and training (15 hours in total over 5 dates)

  • Commit to meeting with the learner for two hours per week for at least six months

an adult literacy volunteer is illustrated to be working with a learner at small table where they sit across from each other. The volunteer is writing something while the learner is saying something. in the foreground is a close up of a poster that says word of the day. Gratitude is the word. Written on the poster is how to pronounce, the meaning of the word and synonmous words to gratitude.
An illustration of an adult literacy volunteer leading a group of learners in reading during a book reading session at a big table by bookshelves filled with books.. Behind them is a backwards window sign that says, "welcome' and "learn literacy.

CONTACT US

Interested in becoming an adult literacy tutor?

Connect with the program near you and learn more about the organization's application process. If you live outside of the west Toronto area, still connect with us:

Alexandra Park Neighbourhood Learning Centre
Katie McLeod or Jason To
info@apnlc.org
(416) 591-7384

Davenport-Perth Neighbourhood and Community Health Centre
Wanda Tse
wtse@dpnchc.ca
(
416) 656-8025 x 421


LAMP Community Health Centre
Johanna Milic
johannam@lampchc.org
(
416) 252-9701 x 243


Parkdale Project Read
Jo Alcampo or Mary Brehaut or Alicia Simmons
info@parkdaleprojectread.org
Application: http://www.parkdaleprojectread.org/volunteer-tutor-program.html


West Neighbourhood House
Cristina Tozzi Lira
volunteers@westnh.org
(416) 532-4828 x 105