A Potent Pick-Me-Up: Why Volunteer Tutoring Feels So Good
Literacy: Where potential takes root. A very troubling statistic is that roughly one in five adults in the United States struggles to complete everyday reading tasks, such as filling out a job application, reading a prescription label, or filling out DMV paperwork. On this International Literacy Day, it is important to recognize this issue and to continue working to address it.
Last week, I was helping one of my Ukrainian students find the right words to describe a moment from her day. Suddenly, I saw it, that incredible light that brightens someone’s eyes when they make a breakthrough, and the quiet pride that comes with knowing they can now say what they mean in English. I teach an online ESL class for adult students in Ukraine who are working to build their English skills, whether for work, connecting with the wider world, or for simply the confidence that comes with a new language. It feels so rewarding to volunteer my time, especially when one of my students has that breakthrough or “aha!” moment when a piece falls into place.
I recently read an article and realized one of the reasons why I feel so invigorated and passionate about volunteering my time: A Florida State University researcher, Dawn Carr, found that older adults who volunteered two hours a week did not experience the usual spike in loneliness that often follows the loss of a spouse, calling volunteering “one of the most potent and protective behaviors in later life.” Regardless of your age or stage in life, it just feels good to give back.
Together, we grow potential. If, like me, you’re looking for a meaningful way to give back as a volunteer literacy tutor but aren’t sure where to start, I invite you to watch our recent Volunteer Tutor Information Session. The session was hosted by Heidi Dryden, a PLC Board member and founder of the Portland ESL Network, and offers a welcoming first step into this meaningful work. If you decide to give literacy tutoring a try, we regularly offer courses and encourage you to take a course and review the helpful materials and links on our website.
Our partnerships root our impact. If you’ve already found your calling, taken a few courses, and want to begin or continue your tutoring journey, we’ve highlighted several of our partner organizations in our newsletter, LiteracyLinks.
Whether you have a few hours a month or a few hours per week to give, your time can make a meaningful difference. You can help others realize their goals, build confidence, increase independence, and grow their opportunities. Every volunteer tutor helps enable a person to branch out and grow strong.
Whether you are just beginning your journey as a volunteer tutor, already giving your time and talent, supporting literacy through tutoring or in other meaningful ways, or contributing financially to PLC, thank you. Your time, passion, and dedication help adult learners build confidence, strengthen their skills, and branch out toward new opportunities.
With gratitude,
Courtenay Carr Heuer
Executive Director, Portland Literacy Council