Illinois Adult Education Hotline
Call or
Text (800)-321-9511There is a path to getting a new job or getting a better job, helping your children with their schoolwork, or preparing for college through adult education in Illinois.
Volunteer Literacy Tutors
Are you interested in helping an adult in your community improve their reading, math, or English skills? Would you like to help immigrants prepare for their Citizenship test? Adult Education programs throughout Illinois need dedicated individuals like you to serve as volunteer adult literacy tutors!
According to the Migration Policy Institute, more than 1 million of Illinois’ 10.3 million residents over the age of 16 lack a high school diploma. And of over 1.8 million foreign-born residents, 47.5% report speaking English “less than very well.” As a volunteer adult literacy tutor, you can help someone in your community achieve their dream of learning English, getting a GED, or improving their skills to get a better job!
What experience do I need?
None! Adult Volunteer Literacy (AVL) programs are happy to have tutors with a variety of backgrounds, experiences, and skills. Free training is provided before you start working with your learner, and many programs have opportunities for ongoing tutor development.
How long is the training?
Most programs in Illinois require volunteer tutors to complete a free 12-hour training that covers basics of adult learning principles, teaching strategies, instructional materials, how to assess learner progress, and more. Training may be provided in-person or virtually; please contact your local program to learn more.
What are the expectations?
Expectations may vary by program. In general, volunteers are expected to complete the required training, meet with their learner for an hour each week, and commit to volunteering for a year. Volunteers must be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma.
I’m ready to get started. How can I find my local program?
You can find your local program by using the Illinois Adult Education Program Directory. Type your city, zip code, or neighborhood (if in Chicago), select “Yes” for interested in becoming a tutor?, and click Search! You can also text or call (800) 321-9511 and one of our staff can help you find a program.