While there is no “typical” adult Learner, there are some common reasons that adults enter an adult literacy program:
they may never have had the opportunity to attend school
they may have had different learning styles that weren’t taken into account in the school system
some adult learners have had learning challenges that have gone undiagnosed
some adult learners have dropped out of school for any number of personal reasons
Many adults who attend literacy programs are just like you. They work, raise families, participate in their communities, and share time with friends.
Becoming a Volunteer Tutor provides you with the opportunity to meet interesting adult learners who will enrich your life, as much as you will contribute to theirs!
has an attitude of respect for learners
understands that working with adult learners primarily involves “learning together”
develops trusting relationships
works to achieve the learner’s needs and goals
understands that their contribution, to support an adult learner, can be a powerful force for positive social change
celebrates the learner’s successes and offers encouragement along the way
takes genuine pleasure in helping people
If you can imagine working with a learner as an opportunity to “learn together,” then you are ready to volunteer as an adult literacy tutor!
