This blog post is by Matthew L., Workforce and Economic Development Librarian.
Literacy Connects is a local non-profit that provides literacy and creative expression programming for people of all ages, from families with young children to adults who are looking to build their language or computer skills. Literacy Connects works with the Pima County Public Library to provide free English language learning, GED, and computer basics classes. I spoke with Edie Lantz, the Director of Language and Literacy Programs at Literacy Connects, about their organization and the volunteer opportunities that they currently offer.
“Literacy Connects is all about the joy in lifelong learning, for both the adult learners and the instructors,” Edie said. “We value equity and social justice by providing access to quality educational opportunities for everyone in the community. We meet the learners where they are and provide instruction based on their individual needs.
“We are looking for volunteers, in Tucson and in Sahuarita, to give instruction in our computer basics classes, in either English or Spanish. Tech skills are needed nowadays for everyday tasks like medical appointments, banking, applying for jobs or using Zoom to communicate. Our classes involve learning how to use a computer, from the basics to Internet safety, passwords, email and how to use cloud-based products like Google Drive,” Edie said. “Options for volunteering include day and evening classes.”
“Don’t be intimidated by the opportunity, no teaching experience is required. Literacy Connects staff provides the orientation, training on how to use the curriculum, and on-call support for the volunteers every step of the way,” Edie said. “We are looking for volunteers who are curious about learning and who enjoy working with people in small groups and one-on-one. If you are a good listener, you can be a successful volunteer.”
The volunteer experience is all about building community and the relationships and friendships that develop over time. “Our volunteers get from the experience as much as they give,” Edie said. “Seeing adult learners succeed is as satisfying as anything else for the volunteers. To be a small part of their success is gratifying. If you are interested, now is a good time to investigate this opportunity in preparation for the new year.”
Go to the volunteer page on the Literacy Connects website to watch a video about volunteering and sign up for a virtual information session to see if this opportunity is a good fit for you.
