YOU CAN HELP LITERACY TAKE ROOT
Literacy tutoring doesn’t require any previous experience, degrees, or training to begin. You can volunteer an hour or multiple hours per week. You can volunteer as an assistant in a classroom setting, one-on-one, or leading a small group. You can choose an in-person or online environment. Whatever path you choose, you can be certain it will be rewarding.
If you’re thinking about becoming a volunteer literacy tutor and want to learn what it’s like to be a tutor, start with the Volunteer Tutor Information Session.
The Portland Literacy Council does not place tutors in programs. We partner with the Portland ESL Network and other area organizations to provide a comprehensive list of area programs that need volunteers.
The following programs regularly seek volunteer tutors to work with adult learners/students. Tutors can choose to work one-to-one, with a small group, or as a program assistant. SEARCH the Portland ESL Network database for an organization, or filter volunteer opportunities for your desired location, time of day, day of the week, the time you can dedicate, and other factors. Or, contact the organizations listed here directly.
1:1 tutors needed for Afghan students ages 20 to 65, using your own student-developed curriculum. One hour weekly for a six-month commitment, online or in person; contact Grace Rubenstein at grace@asnpdx.org.
Lead or assistant teachers needed for adult English learners in Beaverton, online or in person. One to two sessions weekly, three-month minimum commitment; visit beavertonliteracy.org/volunteer.
Teachers and tutors needed for ESOL, Pre-GED, and GED subjects for immigrants, refugees, and adult learners. Four hours weekly starting Sept. 28th; call (503) 463-1488 or apply at midvalleyliteracycenter.org.
1:1 ESOL tutors needed for refugees and newcomers of all immigration statuses in the Portland metro area. One to two days weekly; a year-long commitment is encouraged. Contact megan@pnwrsg.org.
In-person classroom support volunteers needed alongside experienced instructors, especially for beginning-level ESOL students. Morning and evening sessions available. Contact by campus: Southeast Campus, Lucy Marincel, lucia.marincel@pcc.edu; Sylvania Campus, Mark Palmer, mark.palmer2@pcc.edu; Rock Creek Campus, Edit McDonald, emcdonal@pcc.edu.
1:1 GED tutors needed (English, Spanish, or math through Algebra 1/Geometry) for justice-impacted adults across the Portland metro area. Training provided; consistent attendance is key. Contact Dr. Zavrel at contact@therebelacademy.org.
Trained tutors matched with learners for English literacy support in libraries, cafes, and online. Scheduling based on learner availability; register at tacomaliteracy.org for spring and fall training.
Conversation practice tutors needed for adult English learners, paired with another tutor since most volunteers come weekly. Openings mainly in the evening, in-person classes, and online sessions; register at tiella.org or contact Rosemary Carlsen at rosemary.carlsen@gmail.com.
Facilitators needed for in-person group classes at Multnomah County Library locations or 1:1 online English classes. Training provided; no experience needed; email info@torustransforms.org to get started.
Resources for teachers and tutors interested in using online video conferencing. Includes video tutorials and websites from experienced ESL educators.
A Handbook for Tutors Working with Adult ESOL Literacy Learners – created by Margi Felix-Lund, this is a comprehensive guide for volunteer tutors.
English Listening Lesson Library Online – A resource for improving English listening and speaking skills.
Portland ESL Network Website – an online resource that includes an ESL class map and ESL resource materials for students and tutors.
GED.com – The official site for the GED test.
Learn Free.Org – A resource for basic learning and education.
Literacy Now – Downloadable materials for teaching ESOL; from Tacoma Community House
Open Educational Resources – High quality, free and low-cost educational materials.
Tutor Help Center – A resource for tutoring materials and ideas.
USA Learns – A resource for basic learning and education
Adult Literacy League Resources, Orlando, FL – tutor resources including grammar; English language literacy; advanced conversation; adult basic education; computer skills and work skills; test prep for citizenship, GED; learning differences; printable worksheets and templates.
These ESOL packets were compiled by Adult Basic Skills department and Volunteer Literacy Program Coordinators at Portland Community College. The ESOL packets were made possible with the permissions of Pro Lingua Associates and New Readers Press. They are made available to PLC courtesy of the Oregon Literacy, Inc. website.
Student ESOL Packets:
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Tutor/Instructor ESOL Packets:
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