You will make a difference: Understand how by reading our learners’ stories.

“I am happy to say that our sessions really helped me to improve my English skills and I feel more comfortable in my new society. Furthermore, I passed the ESL exams at (college) with good scores, and I received the ESL scholarship to continue my education… I would like to thank my tutor for helping me. Actually, she is not only my English tutor; she is my first American friend and my counselor on everything. Her kind and friendly attitude, her patience and her punctuality is always precious to me.” –Katayun, River Forest

My tutor has helped me “to write paragraphs with a topic sentence and supporting details, to read and understand checks, bank statements, brochures and announcements, correct pronunciation…” –Sylvia, Elgin

“... I have improved my reading, writing, and daily speaking skills. I am no longer afraid to go shopping by myself or talking to people at work. I no longer have to depend on my husband for everything. I feel more confident and free. Thank you so much for volunteering your time and kindness.” —Yie, Lisle

The tutor experience: Seeing lives change forever.

Our tutors see their adult learners become more comfortable and fluent in English. Tutors find direct rewards from their experience, including pride in knowing that they helped their students become more independent members of our community.

Read our tutors’ personal stories…

“I take every opportunity to tell people about you and the outstanding program/resources you offer. I am encouraging other retirees I know to also get involved. Thank you for giving me this opportunity.” –Sharon, St. Charles

"I know personally how learning English helped me have a life, helped me communicate better and feel less alienated. I wanted to tutor so I could return some of the help I received, and help others achieve success and keep growing in their lives." –Claudia (native of Columbia), Elburn

"There are so many people struggling to adapt to a new culture...I wanted to contribute to the growing need for English language. My student's primary concern is fluency... It's rewarding as I see him progress, when he gets the meaning of new words or ideas. In many ways, I find I learn from him as much as he learns from me." –Kevin, Bartlett

“Being involved in the literacy program has literally changed my life as well.” –Barrie, Downers Grove

Read about neighbors helping neighbors …

“It’s like making a friend you would otherwise not have met.” –Melissa, volunteer at Literacy Volunteers of Western Cook County

“You feel like you’re part of their family. I have continued to talk with students after they graduated from the program.” –Peggy, volunteer at Literacy DuPage

“Tutoring is a pleasure. Students are interesting people with a different perspective. Makes you appreciate what we have living in the U.S., what we take for granted.” –Peggy, volunteer at Literacy DuPage

"I wanted to do something different and also use my skills. (Tutoring) seemed like a good match... If you are tutoring somebody in English or tutoring somebody in reading, you are just improving their life. You're improving their family life, you're improving their employability and the next generation's skills.” –Viv, volunteer at The Literacy Connection

Read heartfelt “Thank you” notes to our tutors...

“My life is different because I talk with people now. It is very important for me to grow in my life and for my children's education. Thank you, tutors, for helping so many people. You are changing their lives." –Rosa, Carpentersville

“Thank you for your time, your strength and your patience. You have become a light in my road.” –Sonia, Wayne

Literally change a life. Become a tutor today.