- Is there any cost involved in becoming a learner with Vision Literacy?
- Is there any charge for attending a volunteer orientation or tutor training session?
- What is the expected time commitment for tutors and learners?
- Do I need to provide my own materials for tutoring?
- What if I am uncomfortable with my learner or my tutor?
- Where are tutoring sessions held?
- What if I am unable to attend a tutoring session?
- Can you describe a typical learner?
- How do you match tutors and learners?
- Who can tutor at the jail?
- I would like to be a part of Vision Literacy but can't commit to specific time periods. Is there something else that I can do to make a difference?
- Are donations to Vision Literacy tax-deductible?
No. This service is free of charge! Is there any charge for attending a volunteer orientation or tutor training session?
The Volunteer Orientation is free of charge. A donation is suggested for tutor training to support free services for learners. What is the expected time commitment for tutors and learners?
Tutors and learners are asked to commit to working together two hours per week. Most meet once a week for two hours or twice a week for one hour. In addition, tutors average one hour per week in preparation time. Tutors and learners are expected to commit to the program for at least six months. Do I need to provide my own materials for tutoring?
No. You will be provided with the materials that are appropriate for the skill level of your learner. You are encouraged to bring in current event materials, such as newspapers or magazines, but this is not required. All materials are free and provided by generous donations. What if I am uncomfortable with my learner or my tutor?
You should contact a Literacy Specialist. One of the primary functions of a Literacy Specialist is to ensure that each match is progressing successfully. If you feel uncomfortable, contact your Literacy Specialist. We will help you resolve the issue or arrange another learner or tutor for you. Where are tutoring sessions held?
Tutors and learners are encouraged to meet in public places that are mutually convenient. Typically, tutors and learners get together in libraries, coffeehouses, bookstores or other public places. What if I am unable to attend a tutoring session?
If you are going to miss one of two sessions, contact your tutor or learner. If you need to miss several sessions because of vacation or illness, please contact Vision Literacy at 408.262.1349. Can you describe a typical learner?
Learners are individuals; therefore, there are no typical learners. The only characteristic that appears in all of our learners is the desire to improve their literacy skills. How do you match tutors and learners?
The training team and Literacy Specialists review the learner intake forms and discuss which learners would match best with which tutors. Tutors and learners are matched based on individual preferences, location, and availability. Who can tutor at the jail?
You must be at least 18 years of age (without any misdemeanors in the last three years or any felonies within the last five years) to tutor at the jail. I would like to be a part of Vision Literacy but can't commit to specific time periods. Is there something else that I can do to make a difference?
Absolutely! As our program grows, so does our need for assistance at many levels. Keep checking for other volunteer opportunities. You might also wish to donate to the Friends of Vision Literacy by making a financial or in-kind contribution. Are donations to Vision Literacy tax-deductible?
Yes. Friends of Vision Literacy is a 501 (c )(3) not-for-profit corporation and all monetary and in-kind donations are tax-deductible. Back to top