Volunteer Tutor Program

What is the OCCC Volunteer Tutor Program?
We are a small organization that relies on volunteers from our community and is facilitated by a part-time coordinator.  This collaborative group works to help adults develop literacy skills (reading, writing & math) as well as accomplish specific personal goals such as prepare for the citizenship exam, get a driver’s license, or meet other real life needs.  The volunteer tutor program is often a useful supplement to Adult Basic Education courses and English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) classes that the student might be taking.  The program is free and materials are provided. 

What is literacy? 
It means having the basic listening, speaking, reading, writing, computer or mathematical skills adults need to solve the problems of everyday life and participate fully in their society.  As society becomes more complex and dependant on written information and communication, the level of skills needed for effective participation increases.  Because the US is one of the most complex societies in the world, the literacy skills necessary for full participation in American life are very high.

Who needs tutoring? 
Many students become effective learners through the public education system.  They are able to attend classes, build relationships with their instructors, and work independently.  Other students have difficulty.  They may have responsibilities at home or at work that prevent attendance in a classroom program.  They may have specific disabilities that make it difficult to attend.  Or, they may not possess the basic skills, study habits or confidence to be effective learners.  Some of our students are non-native speakers seeking help with the English language.  All of these students benefit from individualized instruction by a tutor.  The tutor provides an opportunity to begin learning, encouragement to continue learning, and a role model for lifelong learning. 

NEW VOLUNTEERS are always needed, and are welcome to join us at any time during the year; we strive to maintain a good-sized pool of volunteers so we can match time, locations, and transportation needs with those of our learners.  Training for new tutors is offered at least two times a year, with on-going support and individual assistance available through the coordinator.

THOSE WANTING A TUTOR can begin by filling out a tutor request form at any OCCC location, at the tutor request link on the tutoring website, or calling the tutor coordinator whose name and phone number are listed below.

QUESTIONS? 

Please call Literacy/Tutor Coordinator, at 541-867-8502 or
email: pcarpenter@occc.cc.or.us

Thinking of becoming a volunteer tutor at OCCC?
Check out our Tutor Application Packet for more information.
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