The volunteer tutor program is NALC's primary mission. In this program we match one adult learner with one volunteer tutor. Learners are assessed by NALC staff, who then decides what the best avenue of instruction is for each individual. If the learner is eligible for the tutor program, they are served in the order in which they came into the program.

What does this involve, and how much time is it going to take?
NALC asks volunteers for a six-month minimum commitment with a weekly time commitment of 3 hours. We suggest two 1.5 hour sessions per week, however some pairs work one day per week for 2 or 3 hours. If your learner wants more hours, you may decide based on your schedule. We estimate that you will need 30 minutes to 1 hour per week for preparation time. Meeting times/locations are based upon your availability and location preference. We currently have learner and tutor pairs meeting in locations all across Nashville - public libraries, coffee houses, churches and schools. We have sites throughout Nashville that can be used and will suggest a site for you and your learner. They are all in public locations.

But I'm not a teacher.. Does that matter?
Not at all! As long as you have a desire to make a difference and are fluent in reading, writing and speaking English, you can help! Volunteers sign-up to attend a one-day training class, held one Saturday every month from 9 A.M. until 3:30 P.M.

During this training session we will share information with you concerning available tutoring opportunities. You will choose to work with an adult who needs literacy instruction, or with an adult immigrant needing conversation and English language skills. Once this decision is made, you will attend training classes to give you the information and skills necessary to be a successful volunteer tutor. Things such as teaching techniques, characteristics of adult learners and books that we use are covered throughout the day.

Please note that a foreign language is NOT required to tutor an adult immigrant. NALC will provide you with the skills and materials to work with someone who speaks a different language.

After training you will talk with a NALC staff member about potential learners. Once a learner is selected, NALC will set an appointment for a staff member to introduce you and your learner. At that meeting we will give the appropriate materials, establish the time and place of tutoring, and create a learning plan that gives you more specific direction when working with a learner. After the initial meeting with a NALC staff member, tutors and learners communicate directly with each other for variations to the schedule, such as illness, overtime and holidays.

Send an email to the NALC office for more information on training dates, or check on the home page for an updated listing.

How do I get started?
If you are interested in being a tutor or would like more information, please call the office at 298-8060 or send an email and our staff will get back to you.