YMCA Welcome Center Conversational English Classes

Volunteer Opportunity Description: Conversational English Classes

Brief Organizational Description:
The Welcome Center at Manchester YMCA aims to support the community by fostering cultural connections and providing resources that empower individuals to thrive.

Volunteer Position Description and Purpose:
The Conversational English Classes provide adults in the community an opportunity to learn and improve their English-speaking skills in a welcoming environment. Volunteers are needed to assist instructors in facilitating activities, engaging with students, and creating a supportive atmosphere for learning.

Volunteer Duties & Responsibilities:

• Assist with setting up and cleaning up the classroom before and after each session (ussually 15 munites prior to class)
• Help instructors guide small group activities and role-playing exercises.
• Provide one-on-one conversational practice with students as needed.
• Support students with pronunciation, vocabulary, and basic grammar.
• Ensure that students feel encouraged and confident while participating in class.

Qualifications, Skills, & Requirements:

• Patience, empathy, and good communication skills.
• No prior teaching experience is required, but conversational fluency in English is necessary.
• Must be at least 16 years old.
• Completion of a volunteer application and background check is required if person will be volunteer on a regular basis. (not required for one-time volunteer)
• Teach ESL experience is a plus!

Time Commitment:

• Beginner classes: Thursdays from 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
• Intermediate classes: Tuesdays from 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
• Minimum commitment of 2 hours per week for at least 4 weeks.

Other Information:

• Volunteer hours will be recorded by the instructor at each session.
• Recommended attire: casual but appropriate for a classroom setting.
• Parking is available at the Manchester YMCA.
• Volunteers should bring a positive attitude and willingness to engage with diverse participants.

For more information or to sign up as a volunteer, please contact alvaradod@ymcarichmond.org