Citizenship And ESL Volunteers

No Comments | July 26th, 2007 | Trackback

If you’re craving some connection to other cultures but can’t leave home, consider volunteering with a local organization that provides ESL or citizenship classes to immigrants and/or refugees. Working one on one with people is a great way to learn about his or her life experiences and culture.

To volunteer as an ESL teacher or tutor, you will ideally receive free or low-cost basic training from the organization you assist. This is a great way to get experience find out how you like the work if you are thinking of volunteering overseas to teach English; obviously you can help someone improve their lives by learning your language as well. Read more of my tips on volunteering to teach English and get an inside look at an ESL class in Indiana.

Citizenship procedures quite likely vary by country; I was a bit surprised to learn that immigrants must live in the US for at least five years before they can take the test. I was also surprised that the test costs $675, which is a lot to lose if you don’t pass. Citizenship represents a more specialized subject than ESL and volunteers may be expected to have a background in the area or prior experience teaching it.

Read about some citizenship classes in Iowa here and here.

Idealist.org has an excellent searchable database of charitable organizations which you can use to find a non-profit near you.