The Literacy Council of Buncombe County provides free one-on-one or small group instruction to adults in basic literacy and English as a second language. The Literacy Council currently has 150 tutors, all of whom are trained volunteers, serving about 250 students: 200 studying ESL and 50 studying basic reading, writing and arithmetic skills, including GED preparation. Volunteer tutor of the year John Kuhlman relates, “I am presently tutoring 14 international students from around the world in my one-on-one ESL classes. Teaching these immigrants has been one of the most rewarding activities of my life as they struggle against incredible barriers to get ahead in their adopted land … we should be honoring these immigrants who are working so hard to achieve success …” Volunteer tutors like John are the driving force behind the Literacy Council’s fight against adult illiteracy. There are over 39,000 adults in Buncombe County who lack the skills to fill out a job application or read a food label. There are over 12,000 people in our community for whom English is not their first language. Many of these people have sought help from the Literacy Council, but there aren’t enough tutors to meet the demand. Volunteer tutors receive free training and materials as well as ongoing support. Become a tutor! Info: 254-3442 or literacytutors@bellsouth.net
Before you comment
The comments section is here to provide a platform for civil dialogue on the issues we face together as a local community. Xpress is committed to offering this platform for all voices, but when the tone of the discussion gets nasty or strays off topic, we believe many people choose not to participate. Xpress editors are determined to moderate comments to ensure a constructive interchange is maintained. All comments judged not to be in keeping with the spirit of civil discourse will be removed and repeat violators will be banned. See here for our terms of service. Thank you for being part of this effort to promote respectful discussion.