For the Gazette
Stevens Point – The Portage County Literacy Council (PCLC) is looking for additional volunteers to tutor adults in our community. Contact the Portage County Literacy Council in August to fill out an application and learn about training activities.

The PCLC helps adults achieve more at work, with their family, and in their everyday lives. Tutors meet one-on-one with their learners on a weekly basis and provide individualized assistance based on the learners’ language level and life goals. With the help of trained volunteer tutors, adults improve their reading, writing, and math skills. Immigrants and refugees learn English and civics information.

Barb Fisher, Stevens Point, has been a tutor with the PCLC since September 2020. She said about her decision to become a tutor, “With the kids gone, I thought it was the perfect time to get more involved in the community and make a difference.”

Barb tutors a man who is learning English and providing for his family. She meets him weekly. “[My learner] is the greatest and we laugh all the time. His goal is to become more confident in using English at work and in his everyday life. I’m always encouraging him and letting him know that the way we talk with each other is a sign that he can do it! He’s so eager to learn and he teaches me as much as I teach him.”

PCLC tutors typically volunteer for 2-4 hours a week and can pick a time and location/medium that fits their schedule. Tutors can meet online via video or in person at a public location if fully vaccinated. PCLC provides training, resources, and ongoing match support.

If you are interested in becoming a PCLC tutor or know someone who wants a tutor, please contact PCLC at 715-321-6075 or [email protected] Learn more about PCLC at www.pocolit.org.