About Us
The Literacy Program serves adult learners who want to speak, read and write English. Our volunteers range from 20-somethings to retired professionals who want the satisfaction of teaching a motivated learner. Last year 138 tutors changed the lives of more then 193 students. Now in our fourth decade as a non-profit educational program, we connect adult learners with volunteer tutors. Tutors meet with students one-on-one, or in small groups. Meetings are held once or twice a week.
Volunteer tutors impart more than English. They have a wealth of information about how life works here in Santa Cruz County. They assist students in gaining the basic skills to go shopping, follow directions and they explain how people act socially and at work. In addition, our tutors provide the necessary training to obtain a GED certificate and to obtain citizenship.
Students are motivated adult learners. The program introduces students and tutors, provides learning materials and meeting locations around the county.
Last year, 55% of our students reported that they had received, retained or been promoted at work as a result of their increased reading, writing and speaking skills. About 20% of our students passed a survival English unit. Many are now able to discuss their child’s education with the teacher and talk to the doctor about health care concerns.
Our Stories
I gained the confidence that I needed for years to pronounce English. Now I don’t have to worry about to answer the phone, to buy groceries, to ride the bus, to talk with my neighbor, to resolve the simple things of the life. The program completely changed my life, my family’s life. - Charo
I feel secure. I can write a check. I can pay my bills. The supervisor is very happy with my work. I know that I can keep this job. Most of all I feel free. - Samuel
Tutor Training
Tutor Training Sessions are held in the Spring and the Fall. There are 15 hours of instruction. The first hour is a mandatory orientation for new tutors. Training takes place over 4 half-day sessions. Some of the topics covered are ESL teaching strategies, multi-sensory teaching techniques and lesson plan design. Please call the office for more information and to be put on the waiting list for the next training session.
View the Orientation and Training Schedule
Events
Kitchen Tour- In August of 2010, the Literacy Program held its 3rd annual kitchen tour. Visitors took the opportunity to explore seven beautiful kitchens located in Santa Cruz and Aptos. The kitchens feature state-of-the-art appliances, beautiful cabinetry and stylish architecture. Due to the hard work of our volunteers, this fund raiser was a great success for the third year in a row.
Trivia Challenge- Our 3rd Annual Trivia Challenge was held on Friday September 23, 2011 at the Santa Cruz Civic Auditorium. For more information on the Trivia Challenge and a list of 2011 winners click here.
Human Race- The 2011 Human Race on Saturday, May 7th was a great success! Walkers, runners and supporters raised over $5600 for the Literacy Program. Many thanks to everyone who came to stomp out illiteracy in our community!
To make a donation to the literacy program, click on the Donate button below.
To contact us:
Literacy Program—Main Office
1740 17th Avenue
Santa Cruz, CA 95062
Phone: 831-427-5077
Fax: 831-423-6267
E-mail: literacy@scvolunteercenter.org
Literacy Program—Watsonville Office
12 Carr Street
Watsonville, CA 95076
