All it takes is the ability to read and the interest to help others. As a volunteer for the Family Literacy Center, you'll help someone learn one of the most basic skills for getting ahead. And it only takes two hours a week. Call today. We'll give you all the training you need. (810) 664-2737

Why should I be a tutor?

Most of us are looking for a way to make a difference in the world we live in.  Teaching an adult to read is a satisfying way to do that. As a tutor, you help to "free a mind" to learn, to grow and achieve.  You see a person "take wings" moving from self-doubt to self-confidence, from an "I can't do it" attitude to an "anything is possible" attitude. At the same time, YOU are learning, growing, achieving and gaining new perspectives on the world you live in.  What b etter incentive could there be?

What is the training like?

The 14 hour LitStart Tutor Training is very thorough. Although it is intensive, the classes are casual and fun!

Some of the topics covered are:

• Understanding the adult learners and their goals
• Teaching to your student's learning style
• How to help with phonics, sight words and word families
• Developing comprehension
• How to plan a session using your student's interests
• Developing writing skills
• Information for working with an English as a Second Language student

In addition, the Family Literacy Center provides at least 3 in-service meetings throughout the year.  Topics for these sessions are chosen to help increase a tutor's skills.   Tutors receive ongoing guidance and support from the Family Literacy Center staff.

Who can become a tutor?

Any interested adult who can:

• Read and write English well
• commit two hours a week to a student
• Relate with sensitivity & compassion to another adult
• Maintain confidentiality, demonstrate patience & perseverance

You do not have to be a teacher to be a tutor.

Among those tutoring in our program are a nurse, a cashier, a computer programmer, a press operator, a secretary, a real estate agent, a landscape designer and several retired people from a variety of occupations.

How do I become a Tutor?

Call the Family Literacy office to sign up for an orientation session to learn more about the organization. We will answer your questions and explain in greater detail what its's like to be a volunteer tutor. After attending an orientation, you will need to attend a 14 hour intensive LitStart training program before being matched with a student.

In addition, the Family Literacy Center provides at least 3 in-service meetings on topics which will increase a tutor's skills.  Tutors are also given guidance and suggestions by Family Literacy Center staff.

Where do I get Materials?

You will be trained to use everyday materials (newspapers, magazines, menus, job related materials) as "textbooks."   The Family Literacy Center's library has many workbooks and different reading materials available for your use.   A "New Reader's Collection" of books is available from our library as well as the Marguerite deAngeli Library and it's branches in Metamora and Columbiaville.

How often do I tutor? And where?

Tutoring pairs usually meet once per week, year round.  Sessions last for 1-2 hours.  The  place, time and frequency of meetings are arranged by the tutor, student and Family Literacy Center.  Most meet at places such as a room in a church, library, township hall or other public building.  There is also limited meeting space available at the Family Literacy Center.  Tutoring is never allowed in private homes.   We will help you find an appropriate and convenient place.