You have many volunteer opportunities. Why tutor?
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You improve someone's life immeasurably when you help them learn the foundational skills they need to reach their goals.
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You contribute to improving the quality of life in the Detroit area.
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You can choose to tutor the subject of your interest, at a time that is convenient to you.
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You spend time with people who love to learn.
Our volunteer tutors represent the heart and soul of Siena Literacy Center. Over the past 25 years, our tutors have logged countless hours of their time in service to learners. Tutors and learners develop relationships that promote successful learning experiences and personally enrich each of their lives.
Or call 313-532-8404 for more information!
Our Program
As a tutor, you will be paired with one adult learner to teach reading, math, or English language. You are able to choose what subjects you are interested in tutoring and a time that is convenient to your schedule. You will receive copies of all texts and supplementary resources necessary for your tutoring sessions. Siena Literacy Center offers multiple workshops throughout the year as well as ongoing training opportunities through ProLiteracy so that tutors can continue to hone their skills and provide the highest quality assistance to learners.
FAQ
1.
Is training available? How long does it take?
Siena Literacy Center offers multiple workshops throughout the year to ensure that tutors are highly qualified. Online tutor training is also available through ProLiteracy, allowing tutors to study according to their schedules. Certification is available to those who complete the ProLiteracy training, which takes about 18 hours but can be broken into segments.
2.
How long is the commitment?
We would appreciate a commitment of at least one year. If you are interested in volunteering but can't meet this commitment, please let us know so that we can figure out a way for you to help that meets your scheduling needs.
3.
What is the schedule?
Tutoring sessions typically last two hours and can be scheduled between the hours of 10 am and 8 pm Monday through Thursday. Most tutors meet with learners once a week, but if you're willing, more sessions can be scheduled.
4.
How many students do I teach at one time?
All tutoring is one-to-one. You will be scheduled to tutor one student according to your subject preference: reading, math, or English language.
5.
How do I know if I am eligible?
If you are a high school graduate and willing to help others meet their educational goals, then you are eligible. Previous teaching experience is not a requirement of our tutors.
6.
I have the time and I am willing to tutor more than one student per week. Is this possible?
Of course! If you desire, you may tutor more than one learner or more frequently than once a week.
7.
Who are the students?
The student body is diverse in age, race, 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 improve English speaking or writing skills, or to qualify for a better job.
8.
I want to tutor! What do I do now?
Give us a call at 313-532-8404 to learn more, or sign up directly for our next orientation via Volunteer Match.
9.
Can I support SLC in other ways?
Yes! In addition to tutoring, you can help by donating money or sharing information about our program with others. We can also use volunteer talents in other areas, such as event planning, development, and office management.