Learning Centre for Georgina

What services does your organization provide?
LCG provides academic upgrading for individuals who are interested in writing their GED exam (grade 12 equivalency), completing the necessary credits to complete their Ontario Secondary School Diploma, build skills for independence and enhance workplace skills to assist individuals in maintaining/improving employment. In partnership with Seneca College we also offer grade 12 equivalent (ACE - Academic and Career Entrance) courses in English, Math, Biology and Chemistry, facilitating college entrance without the requirement for a Grade 12 diploma or the GED. We are also partnered with Rose of Sharon Services for Young Mothers so that we are able to provide training to young parenting and pregnant mothers while they have their children cared for on site. This also allows other LCG learners to access childminding so that they are able to increase their attendance and progress more quickly through their studies.

Do you have any age requirements?
18 years and older

Do you require language proficiency other than in English?
No

What time commitment(s) are you expecting from a volunteer?
Minimum of 2 hours per week to deliver training
One half hour to one hour for planning and preparation
Minimum long range commitment of 6 months

Are there any other requirements for being a volunteer?

• Understand LCG's mission and mandate
• Review with staff and student the student's learning goals and training plan
• Work with staff to select appropriate teaching materials that suit the student's goals, abilities and interests
• Plan and prepare materials for weekly tutoring sessions
• Tutor the student once per week for a minimum of two hours at the Centre or in a public place
• Complete weekly session reports
• Assist in reviewing progress and revising the student's training plan on an ongoing basis
• Attend tutor training seminars as scheduled
• Maintain a positive, patient attitude that encourages learning
• Tell staff about changes in appointments
• Inform staff if match with student is unsuccessful
• Discuss student's progress with staff
• Discuss problems/issues with staff when they arise
• Keep record of volunteer hours with Centre, including participation at events

Are there any specific skills and experience required?

• A patient, open minded, flexible attitude
• willingness to try new and creative ways of teaching
• An understanding of the student-centred approach to teaching and learning
• Good verbal and listening skills
• Good skills in reading, writing, spelling and/basic math, and/or computers
• The ability to keep weekly appointments
• Respect for confidentiality
• Respect for student's goals

What type of volunteer positions are typically available?
Volunteer tutor, or member of board of directors

Is there any training provided for volunteers?
Yes - done via DVD, On-line and some in class training

What are the typical volunteer activities occurring at your organization?
Working with individual learners to help them through an area of difficulty, whether that be math, grammar or writing skills

How will a person benefit from volunteering with Learning Centre for Georgina?
The satisfaction of watching a learner progress and seeing their self-confidence bloom as they realize they are able to do things most thought they weren't capable of. Seeing someone reading a book for the first time in their life at age 50.

Do you accept high school students?
No.