Volunteer
Our volunteers are the heart and soul of Literacy Outreach.
Our tutors come from all across the county and bring a wide range of ages, backgrounds, and teaching experiences. They include both native and non-native English speakers, all eager to help! Some of our tutors are even former students.
How does it work?
We make it simple! It starts with an orientation, followed by a 3-hour training session. Next, we’ll match volunteer tutors with their student(s). With the help of Literacy Outreach staff, students and tutors will find a day, time, and location that works for both parties. Tutoring sites are available throughout Garfield County, or even online for those comfortable doing so.
Please note that tutor volunteers should budget a minimum of three hours per week (which includes lesson planning and travel) to work with your students over the course of six months.
What’s required?
Our instructors come from throughout the county and span in age, gender, employment, and teaching experience. All you need is the desire to help, the ability to read and speak English, and three hours per week. Tutors don’t need to speak a foreign language. Literacy Outreach provides easy-to-use textbooks and curricula for you and your students.
Questions? Check out our Tutor FAQs below, give us a call, or join us for an upcoming information session to learn more.
Contact us today at 970-945-5282, or email us at
literacyoutreach@literacyoutreach.org.
If you’re ready to get started, please fill out our Volunteer Interest Form below:
“The students that I’ve interacted with are serious and dedicated. They really want to take their lives into their own hands and be able to push forward to help their families and help themselves.”
— Cole Buerger, Volunteer Tutor
Frequently Asked Questions
What would I be doing as a tutor?
Volunteer tutors provide weekly instruction in one of the following basic skills: reading, writing, math, or English as a Foreign Language (EFL). Volunteers also help students with skills related to personal literacy needs and goals such as letter writing or job applications. Generally, tutors are placed with an adult student and work in a one-on-one or small group situation. Volunteers do not need to speak a foreign language.
What is the time commitment?
Count on at least three hours per week. Tutors are asked to meet with their students once a week. Allow an an 1.5 hours for class time, 1 hour for lesson planning, plus travel.
Where does tutoring take place?
Tutoring takes place in numerous locations throughout Garfield County including Parachute, Rifle, Silt, New Castle, Glenwood Springs, and Carbondale. Many volunteers tutor at one of the branches of the Garfield County Library District. Generally, tutors are placed with students who live in the same town as they do.
What are the qualifications needed to be a tutor?
Volunteers must read and write in English, believe in adults' ability to learn, and show empathy. Key qualities include enthusiasm, patience, respect for differences, understanding others' needs, and maintaining confidentiality.
Volunteers must also respect the need for confidentiality.
Do I need to speak a foreign language to help?
Volunteers do not need to speak a foreign language. In fact, most native English teachers don't know the languages of the countries that they are teaching.
What if I have never taught before?
Don’t worry, we will train you. You need the desire to try.
What kind of training will I need?
New volunteers are required to attend a one-hour informational session. In addition, three hours of formal training are required. This training discusses the principles of adult learning, learning styles, lesson planning, and many useful teaching techniques. Additional training is offered throughout the year to support you and your learner’s needs.
Does it cost money?
Volunteering is free. Students enrolling at Literacy Outreach pay a small registration fee every six months.
How do I get started?
Come to an informational session, or fill out this form to tell us more about yourself. Call or email us today if you have any questions. 970-945-5282 / literacyoutreach@literacyoutreach.org.
If tutoring isn’t your thing,
there are lots of other ways to help.
Let’s talk!
Call us at 970-945-5284
Or email:
literacyoutreach@literacyoutreach.org