Question 1

How are tutors matched with their student(s)?

Accepted Answer

Tutors are matched with students or classes based on their schedule and preferred volunteering location. Factors such as age, gender (if a preference is indicated), personality, and shared interests are also sometimes considered.

Question 2

How soon can I get started?

Accepted Answer

Our volunteer needs are always changing, and it is impossible to predict when specific needs will arise. Feel free to contact us at any time to inquire about our current volunteer needs.

Question 3

When do your classes start and stop?

Accepted Answer

Most small groups are ongoing.  New students join as they enroll and continue throughout the year unless their schedule changes.

Question 4

Why do I have to commit to tutoring for at least six months?

Accepted Answer

There is no quick fix for low literacy or English-language skills, and improving them takes time and resolve on the part of our students. We expect volunteers to honor this resolve by serving for a minimum of six months.

Question 5

Where will I tutor?

Accepted Answer

Our tutors volunteer throughout Orange County, including in our Carrboro office, churches, libraries, schools, and other public spaces. We do not allow our tutors and students to meet in one another’s homes.

Question 6

When will I tutor?

Accepted Answer

We have classes and one-on-one tutoring from morning to evening each weekday. We work with tutors to find a time that fits their schedule.

Question 7

What kind of training is provided to tutors?

Accepted Answer

In addition to an initial training in the program of your choice, we provide continued support and feedback to all of our volunteer tutors. We also have frequent in-service trainings on specific teaching subjects and strategies.

Question 8

What resources and materials are available to tutors?

Accepted Answer

We make our extensive resource library of textbooks, workbooks, flashcards, electronic resources, games and manipulatives available to all of our tutors for use in our office or offsite. We also have a copier/scanner and computer lab in the office, as well as standard office and school supplies.

Question 9

What do I do if a student asks me for help outside of literacy instruction?

Accepted Answer

Tell us. We will put the student in contact with one of the numerous agencies in the region that provide assistance in areas other than literacy instruction.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS