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Commitment Description: Volunteer ESOL
Tutor
Purpose
Bridge’s English as a Second Language or ESOL tutoring
program helps immigrants admitted legally into the
United States. Some individuals have lived in refugee
camps for years with limited opportunity to learn
English. Bridge staff introduces each volunteer tutor
to their individual learner and helps identify their
goals.
Refugees have faced great odds to start a new life here,
and have an immediate need, in the first six months, for
improved English skills ranging from learning to read
and write, preparing for the workforce, studying for
their driver license and becoming familiar with American
customs. Some are unable to attend local community
English classes due to lack of transportation, child
care, or because of their work schedules.
Each Bridge volunteer tutor has the purpose to help
their student move toward better managing their lives in
the U.S., communicating in English. Having an in-home
tutor allows Bridge’s clients to practice conversation
and use English in a non-critical, accepting
environment.
Responsibilities
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Help the learner (s)
develop confidence in using English
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Respect the learner(s) and
involve them in decisions about the learning process
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Select or create adult
materials and approaches that are suitable for the
learner’s abilities and needs
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Drive to their students
home or meet in a public area within walking distance of
the clients home
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Meet once or twice a week,
for one to two hours
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Meet regularly and
punctually
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Update Bridge of learner’s
progress on a monthly basis
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Complete any other monthly
forms which many be required for their student
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Notify the ESL Coordinator
if a learner needs help with non-ESL related issues
Length of Commitment
- Three to six months, the summer
months for students, or by semester. After the initial
three months volunteers can review with the ESL
Coordinator if they are able to continue. (Most learners
desire to have tutors longer if you can stay.)
Training and Materials
- Three hour teaching ESL teaching
training before volunteer is asked to commit.
- Tutors will be given a beginning packet
or loaned other ESL books and materials. Bridge has a
large collection of teaching materials.
-Ongoing support from the ESL Coordinator
is available by email or phone.
-Use of the Bridge office photocopier is
open for tutors coping worksheets for their learners.
Volunteer Qualifications
-Willingness to maintain confidentiality.
-Good listening, speaking, and basic
reading and writing skills
-Friendliness and desire to encourage
-A sense of humor
Benefits
-Opportunity to share ideas and
information with people of diverse background and
cultures
-Opportunity to welcome people to this
country and play a role in helping them rebuild their
lives
Volunteer ESL tutors play a crucial role
in refugee resettlement. Each one greatly aids a new
resident who is on the road to becoming an American
citizen to achieve goals of self-sufficiency and to feel
comfortable in his or her new community. It can be a fun
and rewarding experience.
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