Creating Pathways Through English and Literacy

Our mission is to provide social and economic empowerment through culturally compassionate English language education.

Personalized Education. Community Impact.

Literacy Volunteers of Greater Worcester provides free English language and literacy instruction tailored to adult learners’ goals — from improving everyday communication to advancing careers, education, and civic participation — helping build a stronger, more connected, and more inclusive Worcester community.

STUDENTS

Learn English
for Free

We offer free 10-week English classes and English tutoring services to help adults build their confidence in speaking, reading, writing, and everyday English skills.

volunteer tutors

Become an English
Tutor

Our free tutoring program offers one-on-one support to help adults improve their English and literacy skills through weekly sessions.

Community Members

How You Can
Help

Make a donation to our free English language programs. Every gift goes directly to supporting our students.

STUDENTS

451

students served in FY2025.

Countries

59

total countries represented in FY2025.

volunteer hours

3,971

hours of instruction provided by volunteer tutors to 100+ students in FY2025.

Workforce Readiness

126

students got a job, were promoted, or entered additional workforce training in FY2025.

Voices of Our Community

Discover the journeys behind our community. Tap or hover over the highlighted countries to read student stories from around the world.

Support Our Free English Language and Literacy Programs

Every donation helps sustain our free English language classes and personalized tutoring services, directly supporting immigrants, refugees, asylum seekers, and adult learners across Greater Worcester as they build language skills, confidence, and opportunities for a brighter future.

News, Events, & Updates

News

November 2, 2026

International Holiday Potluck

Celebrate with LVGW students, tutors, teachers, friends and families on December 9, 2026, 5:30–7:30 PM...

News

November 2, 2026

Winter 2027 ESOL Class Registration

Free English classes for adults. In-person registration runs January 11–22, 2027, and classes begin January...

News

April 27, 2026

Double Your Impact. Help Us Meet Our Match!

Literacy Volunteers of Greater Worcester is honored to be selected as 1 of 38 recipients...

“Since I started taking this English course, I have seen a big change in my life. I have become better at speaking, understanding, and communicating in English. The best thing is the way they teach: everything is clear, easy to understand, and they encourage us to practice every day. This course has not only helped me learn a language, but it has also opened doors to more opportunities, such as jobs, relationships, and knowledge of other cultures. I advise anyone who wants to improve their English to take a good course. It is a worthwhile investment.”

Jean

“I am an asylum seeker through the task force program, and I am from Brazil, specifically from Amazonas. I have been living in the United States for a year and a half. I started studying English in Brazil and then later here in the United States. I have improved a lot with the classes with Professor Ashley. And today, I am a graduate of the CNA course at Quinsigamond Community College. English brought me dignity and a world of opportunity in the United States. Gratitude.”

Paulo

“Literacy Volunteers of Greater Worcester gave me the confidence to use English in my daily life, at work, and in my community. With Carol’s support, I improved my communication skills, earned a promotion at work, and even delivered my first speech in English. Today, I believe in myself more than ever.”

Seetha

“I’m thankful for the opportunity to grow, and the chance to build a happy life for my family. Moving to the United States from Vietnam gave me the opportunity to start over and pursue my dream of owning a business. Through Literacy Volunteers of Greater Worcester, I continue improving my English each week with my tutor Gary, helping me grow both personally and professionally.”

Lan

“My name is Zohreh, and I am an Iranian immigrant who began a new life in the United States five months ago. During this time, the English classes have been much more than just classes for me; they became a place where I found hope again. Learning English means rebuilding my life, step by step, moving closer to independence and connecting with my new world. Every new word feels like a meaningful step toward a brighter future. I am deeply grateful to my teacher, LVGW, and everyone who made this opportunity possible.”

Zohreh

“My first year in the United States was exciting but also challenging. Although I was thrilled to begin this new chapter in my life, I faced difficulties with migratory grief for over six months. I missed my home, my family, and everything I had left behind in Mexico. Then I discovered Literacy Volunteers. Their English classes improved my language skills and confidence. Inspired to give back, I became a volunteer helping other immigrants learn English and adapt to their new lives. It has been rewarding to support the community that welcomed me.”

Karina

“I came to the U.S. from Venezuela five years ago after working as a chemist and researcher. I joined Literacy Volunteers of Greater Worcester in 2019 to improve my English, and I’ve participated in classes every term since. I truly appreciate the talented, skilled, committed, and patient teachers, and I enjoy learning alongside people from many different countries. My goal is to continue improving my English while learning more about the U.S., its people, and its culture.”

Beulah

“I was born in Laos and later moved to France before settling in the United States with my husband for better opportunities. Through Literacy Volunteers of Greater Worcester, I’m building confidence in my English by expanding my vocabulary and practicing everyday conversations. The teachers are friendly, patient, and always provide the extra support I need. My goal is to become more confident speaking English so I can connect with my community and volunteer.”

Thi-Hue