The Adult Tutoring Program of Chester County Opportunities Industrialization Center (OIC) is currently seeking volunteer tutors to help individuals from other countries with their English language skills.

"There is an increasing number of men and women from all over the world who are choosing to make Chester County their home. They come in search of a better, often safer, life for themselves and their families," said Robin Chiavetta, assistant program coordinator. "The need for volunteer tutors is great, as we have a long waiting list of students."

Among the students currently being tutored by OIC volunteers are two women from Ukraine. "One has been in the country a little while, but her husband had to stay (in Ukraine). She and her children were able to escape. Fortunately, she has a sister here and they were able to come here," Chiavetta said. "The other one has an adult son who is still there. He had to stay to fight. We found a tutor who is Ukrainian and wants to work with (the mother)."

"As the situation there continues, we expect to see many more like them," Chiavetta added.

A four-year college degree is required to tutor, but teaching experience is not needed. The training is offered online through the Pennsylvania Department of Education.

Tutors are asked to meet with their student three hours each week, usually in two 90-minute sessions. Pairs can meet in person at local libraries or other mutually convenient locations such as a coffee shop or the cafe section of a grocery store. They may also choose to meet virtually over Zoom, FaceTime or other online platforms.

"We still have some tutors who are more comfortable (meeting online), or because of logistics, it works better. (Meeting virtually) was a bonus that came out of the pandemic," Chiavetta said. "We have a lot of students who don't have cars or can't get rides. It's nice for them to still have a tutor and not to worry about transportation."

Chester County OIC provides free adult basic literacy education and life skills programs that prepare individuals for employment and economic self-sufficiency. Students come from countries such as Brazil, Afghanistan, Egypt and Mexico.

"Phil is working with Lucia. She is from Venezuela and wants to get a better job and become a U.S. citizen. Mary works with Alex, who was a lawyer in Brazil and wants to learn English and continue his career. Katie is helping Kim, a stay-at-home mom who wants to learn English so she can feel more confident talking to other parents and teachers at her children's school," said Chiavetta. "Our students' stories are all different, with one thing in common - their desire to learn English and thrive in their new community."

For more information about the program, including how to become a volunteer tutor, visit http://www.ccoic.org, call the Adult Tutoring Program office at 610-344-4013 or contact Debbie Rikess, program coordinator, at drikess@cc-oic.org.