Volunteer Opportunities Available
The
Literacy Project provides basic skills education and training to adults at five
community learning centers in western Massachusetts.
A community-based non-profit
formed in 1984, The Literacy Project (TLP) covers a 1,100 square mile
region, serving Franklin and Hampshire counties and some towns in Hampden and
Worcester counties. Learning centers
are located in Greenfield, Orange, Northampton, Amherst and Ware. TLP serves over 500 students each year with
a staff of approximately 20.
We
believe that literacy and basic education are the building blocks of democracy
and community development.
To participate fully as a
decision-maker at home, at work and in the community, adults need a range of
basic skills, including communication, conflict resolution and critical
thinking. In addition to teaching the
academic basics, we study community issues, discuss current events, and provide
opportunities for students to take action on issues of concern to us all.
Each
student brings a unique history and story.
Most TLP students left high school without graduating. For some students, personal or family problems, illness, or drug abuse made it difficult to stay in school. Others left to have children or support families. Still others found the social or educational environment of high school too difficult to tolerate.
Many students overcome significant challenges and
barriers to attend TLP classes.
Some are homeless and living in shelters. Some have been court-ordered to obtain their GED. Some are in recovery from drug abuse or mental illness. Most are struggling to survive economically.
A growing number of students are youth.
While we serve adults 16-65 and older, in recent
years 50% of our students were 14-24 years old. To meet the needs of youth, who bring interests and learning
styles that are distinct from those of older adults, TLP is developing a youth program
that incorporates academic, pre-employment and life skills training.
Most
students are working towards the GED, the high school equivalency exam.
Students may also be
studying for professional certification, such as the Certified Nurses Assistant
Exam, preparing for college entry, or gaining job skills or independent living
skills. Some attend classes for several
months while others attend for several
years. The length of participation
depends on the student’s goals, motivation, and entry level.
Small
classes, a varied schedule, and plenty of individual attention help students
meet their goals.
We teach reading, writing, math, GED preparation, computer literacy, creative writing, science, social studies, humanities and the arts, leadership development and job training. Classes are free to any adult in the community, and the curriculum is responsive to the needs of the individuals enrolled.
Computer
literacy training is a core component of The Literacy Project’s curriculum.
In many of the communities we serve, TLP is the only resource providing free computer literacy training to disadvantaged individuals. TLP integrates technology into classroom activities and provides introductory level computer training.
The
Community Leaders Program provides opportunities for civic participation and
community leadership.
Through hands-on,
experiential trainings and community service projects, students explore
leadership skills and gain support in becoming more actively involved in the
community. The skills students develop
– in areas such as communication, conflict resolution, cooperative group
development, and group facilitation – build self-esteem and complement their
academic development.
TLP
depends on the generous contributions of community volunteers to carry out
these programs.
Approximately 65 volunteers contribute over 2,600 staffing hours each year, an in-kind contribution of almost $45,000. Beyond their significant contribution of time, volunteers' diversity of experience, depth of knowledge, connections in the community and enthusiasm for teaching and learning are invaluable contributions. Volunteers work as tutors, teachers, curriculum developers, technology experts, field trip coordinators, consultants, outreach assistants and office assistants.