For Adult Learners  

What is expected of me?

Is there any cost for tutoring?

How long does it take to complete the program?

Where are the tutoring sessions held?

What is the schedule?

Who tutors at the SLC?

Do you accept students from other countries?

What is expected of me?

We expect that you attend your scheduled tutoring session prepared, on time and willing to learn.

Is there any cost for tutoring? 

There is no cost for the tutoring sessions. A small registration fee of $10 is requested. Students are expected to purchase any workbooks. (approximately $10)

How long does it take to complete the program?

This varies, depending on student level at entry, individual goals, regularity of attendance, and investment of effort. Advanced students are referred to GED classes or other programs.

Where are the tutoring sessions held? 

Sessions take place at the Siena Literacy Center in northwest Detroit.  Click Map of 16161 Winston St
Detroit, MI 48219-3630, US for a detailed map.

What is the schedule?

Each session lasts about an hour and a half and can be scheduled between the hours of 9am-8pm Monday through Thursday. Most students attend once a week, but if the tutor is willing, more sessions can be scheduled. Student registration is ongoing throughout the year, but we ask that you call and make an appointment before your first visit.

Who tutors at the SLC?

Willing volunteer tutors of all ages and from all walks of life come to share their love of learning and the benefits that learning brings to life.  Each tutor has applied and been approved according to the high standards of the Center. All of them are volunteers from Detroit and its adjacent suburbs. They share a common desire to help adult learners. Our tutors are referred to us by the United Way®, VolunteerMatch®, Retired Seniors Volunteer Program (RSVP)®, AARP®, and various church and civic organizations.  Reading tutors are fully trained and certified in the ProLiteracy America method. This is an internationally acclaimed approach used specifically in teaching the adult learner. 

Do you accept students from other countries?

Yes. The English as a Second Language (ESL) program is an integral part of the Siena Literacy Center’s mission. Since 1995, we have had students come from over fifteen different countries.

Is training available? If so, how long does it take?

Yes. There is a 13-hour training workshop held two times a year – early spring and mid-autumn at the Siena Literacy Center free of charge. Completion of the workshop certifies tutors through ProLiteracy America. Certification is not a requirement to begin tutoring, but we strongly encourage all reading tutors to eventually get certified. Volunteers tutoring students in math are not expected to attend the tutor-training workshop.

In addition to the formal training, new tutors meet with one of the staff prior to meeting their student for the first time to get acquainted with their student’s needs and the study materials available.

How many tutors has the Siena Literacy Center certified?

At present, the SLC has 168 active tutors. Since 1995, more than 550 men and women have been certified through the SLC. 

If I volunteer, how long is my commitment?

We would appreciate a commitment of at least six months.  Our programs are very flexible; we match you with a learner who is available to meet once a week at a time convenient to you. 

What is the schedule? 

Each session lasts about an hour and a half and can be scheduled between the hours of 9am-8pm Mondays through Thursdays. Most learners come in once a week, but if the tutor is willing, more sessions can be scheduled.

How do I know if I’m eligible?

If you are a high school graduate and willing to help people improve themselves then you are eligible.  Previous teaching experience is not a requirement of our tutors.

How many students do I teach at one time?

All tutoring is one-on-one. You will be scheduled to tutor one student according to your subject preference(s)... reading, math, or English as a Second Language.

I have the time and am willing to tutor more than one student a week.  Is this possible?

Of course!  If you desire, you may tutor more than one learner or more frequently than once a week

Who are the SLC students?

The student body is diverse in age, race, creed, and cultural background. Reasons for attending are equally diverse: to learn to read; to enhance reading skills; to reach reading and math requirements for entrance into other programs; to learn English as a second language.

I want to tutor! What do I do now?

Can I support the SLC in other ways?

Yes! In addition to tutoring, you can help by publicizing our program, donating money and any in-kind donations such as office supplies, office furniture or computers.  We also seek volunteer receptionists to answer the telephone and greet learners and tutors.  In addition, throughout the year, we hold special events that require the efforts of many.  Check our Calendar page to see what we’re planning.