HAMILTON: Organization needs volunteers to tutor Mercer County residents

Training sessions begin Sept. 25.

   Literacy Volunteers in Mercer County (LVMC) seeks volunteers who can donate two hours per week to tutor Mercer County adults, noting that anyone interested may take advantage of training sessions beginning Sept. 25.
   ”The demand is so great that we have a lengthy waiting list of people who have applied to be tutored. I encourage people to become a volunteer tutor for these motivated adults,” said Cheryl Kirton, LVMC executive director. She said that without literacy skills, these people lack the critical tools they need to succeed in their careers, provide for their families and promote economic recovery.
   LVMC, an organization dedicated to helping adults learn to read, write and speak English, urge potential volunteers to take advantage of two upcoming tutor training sessions being provided. An evening session begins Sept.25 and meets for five weeks from 6-9 p.m. A daytime session begins the same day and meets for five weeks from 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
   ”Often people hesitate to volunteer because they are not trained tutors,” said Ms. Kirton. “However, we provide training and resources for each tutor prior to being matched with a student.”
   Tutors need only be 18 years or older, have at least a high school diploma or its equivalent. No foreign language, education training or college is required.
   ”Seeing these motivated adults learn to read, write and speak English correctly is very affirming,” said Ms. Kirton. “However, the benefits flow far beyond the student. Literacy empowers the family whose lives become more stable and successful, as well as to the nation as more educated adults help the country compete in a global economy leading to a more robust economy.
   ”LVMC is dedicated to providing free tutoring services to adults who need literacy training,” said Ms/ Kirton. “In the face of reduced funding we are seeking additional public donations.”
   To volunteer to tutor, call 609-587-6027. Tutoring sessions will be held at 111 Nassau Park Blvd., Princeton.