The best spokespersons for volunteer opportunities at the Durham County Literacy Council are our volunteer tutors. The following thoughts are their own:

"I have worked weekly with my student for several years. When I first met him, he didn't know the alphabet and now he reads on a third grade level. I tutor him because he is the finest person I have ever met."
ABE Tutor

"I decided to tutor because I missed teaching ESL and intercultural communication- - what I did for many years before becoming a university administrator. Students teach me so much about their cultures, I always feel that it is an even exchange- - no, clearly they give me more than I give them! I love the diversity of the classes and continuing my personal work of removing borders and becoming more of a global citizen. No matter how tired I am on a tutoring night, I return home energized and feeling more whole!"
Second-year ESOL Tutor

"Why do I tutor? I have to say that my student is an inspiration to me. Every lesson I have with her, I leave feeling like I made a difference. She works hard and what makes it work so well is that she wants to learn, and I want to teach. Therefore, we make a good team. I have thoroughly enjoyed my time with her. I have learned a lot ( and re-taught myself those grammar skills that we take for granted."
First-year ABE/GED Tutor

"Tutoring ESOL, level 1 has been a rewarding experience because of the enthusiasm of the students. These students REALLY want to improve their English. The first night after one hour I asked them if they wanted a break. One man spoke up and said "No, we want to learn English." The class agreed. It was several weeks before they would take a break. I look forward to the next semester."
First-year ESOL Tutor