PWC Mandate

People, Words & Change helps adults in the Ottawa region to improve essential skills in English reading and writing, everyday math and basic computer skills. Tutoring is provided free of charge on a one-on-one basis by volunteer tutors. Our tutors help adult learners meet their individual goals such as working toward employment, educational upgrading and mastering practical life skills.

Goal of Volunteer Position

To assist PWC to achieve the above mandate.

Time Commitment

Tutoring sessions are once a week for about two hours per session. Volunteers should be able to commit to at least one year of tutoring. We have continuous intake throughout the year with peaks in the early fall and early new year. Matches can decide if they wish to continue over the summer.

Tutor Requirements & Responsibilities

• Interest and/or experience in working with adults on a one-on-one basis.
• Excellent English reading and writing skills. Computer knowledge is desirable.
• Attend the Tutor Orientation Session and relevant themed tutor workshops throughout the year.
• Support the learner in achieving the goals and essential skills of the learning plan in the areas of: employment, further education or personal independence.
• Help learner set new goals and develop new essential skills as required.
• Prepare lessons for weekly tutoring sessions.
• Keep records and discuss learner’s progress with a PWC counsellor on a regular basis.
• Keep track of tutoring hours and communicate them to a PWC counsellor.

Support Volunteer Tutors Will Receive from PWC:

• Each tutor/learner match is set up by an Education Counsellor who supports the match throughout its duration.
• At the start of a new match, the Education Counsellor meets with the tutor to explain the learning plan, provides appropriate resource materials and relevant educational websites and suggests suitable tutoring strategies.
• Communication and consultation is ongoing. Follow-up visits are arranged on a regular basis.
• PWC has a resource library available to tutors and learners
• PWC has space for tutoring purposes. We are equipped with computers and high-speed Internet access
• Tutor workshops are offered on a variety of themes
• Tutors and learners receive online newsletters and bulletins. Our website is kept current with events and resources.