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Literacy Volunteers of Greater Worcester

Providing English language proficiency for Economic Security

  • About Us
    • Administrative Staff and Teachers
    • Board of Directors
    • LVGW Volunteer Stories!
    • News & Announcements
    • Newsletter
    • Contact Us
  • For Tutors
    • Volunteer Tutors
    • Resources for Tutors & Teachers
  • For Students
    • Free ESOL Classes and Tutoring Service
    • Tutoring Service
    • Resources for Students
  • Donors
    • Give the gift of literacy
    • Support LVGW. Donate Today!

Welcome Students and Teachers

June 2, 2025 by Cuong Huynh

Each year Literacy Volunteers of Greater Worcester helps adults from all walks of life, all with different needs, become more comfortable with the English language. We challenge our students to dream, we are proud of all their accomplishments and we look forward to helping many more in the very near future. Here are their stories.

 

LVGW Volunteer Stories!

April 22, 2025 by Cuong Huynh

Volunteer Tutors

I am Rosa Mumbiela, a Spanish teacher living here in MA for her second year although I was living in Texas for 3 more. I’m one of the new tutors of LVGW. I decided to join you because I perfectly understand what it means to be in a foreign speaking country and I wanted to help to anyone who needs it. Thank you for giving me such a great opportunity.

 

 

 

My name is Faith. I visited Worcester in 2005 and I never left. Worcester is a pretty city and there are people from all over the world here which is exciting. I had worked with other ESOL programs in NC, CA and NY, so I decided to visit Literacy Volunteers of Greater Worcester to see if I could volunteer.  The staff was very friendly and inviting and I felt very comfortable. I joined as a tutor because it is important to me to help others. I also knew from experience that coming to live in another country and not knowing the language was not easy and I needed all the help I could find. Tutoring someone means helping them learn a new language, learn about other resources available for them, and sharing my own experiences. Many times I became friends with my students and we invited each other to our homes, sometimes shopped together, learned about each other’s cultures and changed each others lives. I love tutoring and being part of the family of Literacy Volunteers because it’s one of the best things in my life.

 

My name is Gary Tuthill and I’ve been working with Bijan Mohammadi since completing my tutor training in the Winter of 2013. I’m retired from computer programming and this is my first tutoring effort. Bijan is a pleasure to work with, and we’ve become good friends. Much of our time together has been conversation, including job application discussions, house buying evaluation and the history, culture and geography of Iran. While already able to handle the basics of life in Massachusetts, Bijan has become much more comfortable and skilled in communication in English.

The staff at Literacy Volunteers is enthusiastic, helpful and professional. My tutor training was thorough, and I feel well-prepared and supported in my work with Bijan. The organization’s efforts are so important in helping immigrants better cope with our language and culture.

 

My name is Darrelyn and I have been a tutor for almost a year and a half.  I have always wanted to be a Literacy Volunteer and a few years ago, I finally had the time to devote to it.  I did not have any teaching experience before this, but the training program and the support that is available gave me the confidence to become a tutor.  I meet with Ban, my student, every week and we work on speaking, reading and comprehension, listening skills using different strategies.  Ban has made great progress and she is a motivated and enthusiastic learner.

This experience has been so meaningful and rewarding for me.  Ban is my student but also has become a friend.  She has taught me many things about her culture and country.  She is a wonderful cook and has spoiled me and my family with many delicious dishes!

 

My name is John Matraia and I have been volunteer with Literacy Volunteers for two years. I am currently working with my third student, Kwabena Boakye. He has been in the United States for five years. We have been working together weekly for several months and Kwabena is making excellent progress, as he is very diligent about his class work.

In addition to working full time, Kwabena also works part time whenever he is needed. Being a member of his Church is a very important part of his life and has helped him to develop a network of friends. His long‐ term goal is to bring his children to America at some point in the future. They are currently in school in Ghana.

 

My name is Jean Bowker. My student’s name is Janaq Rungollari. I became a literacy tutor almost 2 years ago. As a former teacher of reading and language, I enjoy working and seeing the gains my student has made. I was proud to attend the ceremony and see Janaq become a U.S. Citizen as I tutored him in this area also. Janaq has been a wonderful student and I have learned so much from him.

Literacy Volunteers provides a valuable service to immigrants to give them the skills to become productive and literate citizens. It also provides tutors with a greater understanding of the hardships many of our immigrants face. As tutors we make a difference in more ways than learning, and serve as mentors when there are problems faced by students new in this country.

 

My name is Bob Laperriere. I tutor 2 students, Durga Khawas from Bhutan, and Tha Shi Wah, from Burma. Both are refugee immigrants with remarkable life stories. I became a tutor last summer. I retired from the postal service in 2012 as a letter carrier and was looking for some interesting things to do so, among other things, I ended up as a tutor with Literacy Volunteers.

I had no idea how much fun it would be to meet these fascinating, gracious, gentle people that I have come to respect and love. I think I get more out of these relationships of learning than they do. I grew up in a poor French-Canadian family surrounded by others from Quebec who had immigrated to Lowell, Lawrence and Haverhill to work in the mills and shoe shops. I remember the struggles I saw my grandparents and my parents made to improve their lives and can really empathize with these new visitors to America.

On Christmas Eve I received the amazing news that Durga Khawas had passed the US Citizenship test. That truly astounded me as I knew the language disabilities he struggles with. His positive, very hardworking spirit and his clever methods for memorizing language were rewarded. I have learned a lot from both of my students.

Make a Difference. Volunteer at LVGW!

April 7, 2025 by Cuong Huynh

As a volunteer with Literacy Volunteers of Greater Worcester you have the opportunity to change the lives of our students by becoming a

  • Tutor
  • Board Member
  • Office/Teacher Assistant
  • Fundraising Assistant
  • Event Assistant

If you are interested in volunteering at LVGW, please fill out this form first. 

Our volunteers come from all walks of life, but all share in the desire to LVGW to help a fellow community member learn how to speak, read, and write in English.

Here are LVGW volunteer tutors’ stories.

Here are LVGW volunteer board members’ stories.

In-person Registration Dates for Spring 2025 Semester

December 22, 2024 by Cuong Huynh

Spring 2025: ESOL Classes will run from January 27 – April 4, 2025 (10 weeks)

In-person registration for Spring Semester: January 8, 2025 – January 23, 2025 

Registration Locations & Hours:
90 Madison St. Room 303a, Worcester MA 01608
M-Th 10 am-1:00 pm
3 Salem St. Suite 332, Worcester MA 01608
M-Th 12 pm – 4:30 pm
Fri 1/17 & 1/24 3pm-5Pm
(Please be sure to bring your cell phone and be prepared to use Email and WhatsApp for registration.) (flyer)


Sign up for our next Volunteer Tutor Information Session on January 2nd!
If you want to make a positive impact in the community, consider becoming a volunteer tutor at Literacy Volunteers of Greater Worcester–where you can help adults improve their English language skills through personalized one-on-one tutoring; no prior teaching experience required; and training will be provided!

Sign up for our next Volunteer Tutor Information Session on Thursday, January 9th, 6:30pm- 7:30pm (Zoom) at http://tinyurl.com/3c3esrfs

Read more about becoming a volunteer tutor at https://www.lvgw.org/volunteer-tutors/


You and your family are invited to LVGW International Potluck Party to celebrate our students, tutors, teachers, friends, and families during this special time of year! Please bring a traditional family food from your home country for everyone to share. Food, fun, and a festive time for all.
Date/Time: 12/18/24 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Location: 3 Salem Sq. Saxe Room
Sign up here

Rescheduled-Looking for Free training opportunities for a good job?

Sign up for Information Session on FREE Training Opportunities for Good Jobs!

The Worcester Jobs Fund continues to provide FREE training opportunities for residents to prepare for good jobs!
They are currently recruiting for:

  • Certified Clinical Medical Assistant
  • 7D Van Driving Training 
  • National Grid: Energy Infrastructure Academy

Anh Dao, program director, invites you to learn about a variety of Worcester Jobs Fund programs and how to apply, available to a limited number of Worcester County residents at no cost. Sign up for attending this session now and we will email you the zoom link soon.

Dates: Thursday: December 12,  2024
Time: 9:00am -10:00am
Location: Zoom (Sign up now and we will email you the zoom link)

For more information, contact Anh Dao, Worcester Jobs Fund Assistant, Email: DaoA@masshirecentral.com Office: 508-453-6847 Cell: 774-418-1234


Spring 2025: ESOL Classes will run from January 27 – April 4, 2025 (10 weeks)

If you are interested in learning English with LVGW and receiving registration information about our Spring 2025 ESOL classes, please sign up for our Interest List, and also sign up for our LVGW News & Announcements WhatsApp Group.

 

 


Give the Gift of Literacy Today!
Today is Giving Tuesday. Please consider supporting LVGW for your end-year donations.
With your support, we provide free English education to adult learners and create an equitable community where adults have a path to economic stability and civic engagement.
When you give – in any amount – you help change the lives of our students! Thank you!
Donate Now at https://www.lvgw.org/donors/donate-now/

Thank you to United Way of Central Massachusetts for Your Generous Support!

Thank you to United Way of Central Massachusetts! For the Community Impact generous grant award and for supporting adult literacy in Worcester!
The funding goes towards the LVGW ESOL and Work Force Readiness Program for New Americans in Greater Worcester beginning Jan. 1, 2025. LVGW is happy to have UWCM as a new partner to help us make a difference in our community.

Workshop: Finding jobs, job training opportunities on MassHire website and JobQuest!
Steven McIntosh, Upskilling Navigator of MassHire, invites you to learn how to navigate the MassHire Central and JobQuest websites to find employment and job training, as well as additional online job search resources.
Friday, October 25 from 10-11AM
Zoom link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/83122486324

 


Looking for upcoming job openings and job fairs?
Looking for a job? Check out LVGW Online Bulletin Board for upcoming job openings and job fairs
at https://www.lvgw.org/community-resources/bulletinboard/

Looking for free higher education or career training opportunities? Attend this QCC Information Session!
Peter Soucy, Admissions Recruitment Counselor of QCC invites you to learn about a wide array of programs and services designed to help you achieve your educational and career goals. He will talk about degree and certificate programs, Workforce Development training programs, GED/HiSET classes, Free Tuition for Students over 25 programs, as well as financial aid and grant funding opportunities.
Dates: Friday: October 11
Time: 10:00 am-11:00 am
Zoom link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/83122486324
LVGW Invites you to our 2024 Annual Meeting
It’s time to celebrate the success of our students, the dedication of our teachers & volunteers, and the work that we do!!!

Join us for Literacy Volunteers of Greater Worcester’s 2024 Annual Meeting. Listen to inspirational testimonials & organizational updates, and congratulate award recipients. (Refreshments will be served. Open to all.)

To confirm your attendance, please RSVP below:

I will attend the meeting!

Celebrating over 50 years of service!
Providing social and economic empowerment through culturally compassionate English language education.

I want to support LVGW!
  • Make a difference. Volunteer at LVGW!
  • Donate to Literacy Volunteers of Greater Worcester today!

(Checks can be mailed to: Literacy Volunteers of Greater Worcester, 3 Salem Square, Suite 332, Worcester, MA 01608)


FREE Workshop: How to write a resume and cover letter
HOW TO WRITE A RESUME & COVER LETTER
Friday, September 27 from 10-11am
No registration required.
Bill Starr, an experienced Job Developer/Recruiter from MassHire, invites you to learn how to write an effective resume and cover letter and what best practices you should follow.
Zoom link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/83122486324

STARTING A SMALL BUSINESS IN WORCESTER AREA
Friday, September 20 10am-11am
Zoom link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/83122486324
No registration required. All is welcome.
Join us for an informative workshop on the fundamentals of starting a successful business. Whether you have a business idea or are already in the early stages, this session will equip you with the knowledge and resources to kickstart your entrepreneurial journey.
Important Steps-Getting Started-Setting Goals-Helpful Tips!
Presented by the City of Worcester, Executive Office of Economic Development.

In-person registration for Fall Semester : September 9, 2024 – September 26, 2024
(Please be sure to bring your cell phone and be prepared to use Email and WhatsApp for registration.)
Registration Hours and Locations:
90 Madison St. Room 303a
M-Th 9 am-12 pm
3 Salem St. Suite 332
M-Th 12 pm – 5 pm
Read more at https://www.lvgw.org/for…/free-esol-citizenship-classes/

LVGW Quarterly Newsletter: September 2024

In This Issue:

Greetings from LVGW
Student Accomplishments
Student Testimonials
Events/Learning Opportunties
Resources
Support LVGW

Read more

Tour to the Worcester Public Library, Sept. 6, 10am-11am
Did you know that the Worcester Public Library has something for everyone and for all ages? If you’ve ever wondered what the Library is all about make sure not to miss this special tour!
Sign up for a WPL membership and have your own library card to borrow books, movies, and so much more for Free. You can sign up for a library card (if you don’t already have one) before coming to the tour and be ready to receive your brand new library card when you come for the tour. If you need help filling out the application the LVGW office will be happy to help.

JOIN US for this wonderful tour of the Worcester Public Library! Let’s meet at the Welcome Desk where Katelyn, New American Librarian of the library will guide us through the building and highlight some of the wonderful things the Library has to offer everyone for FREE!

Audience: Everyone is invited-students, teachers, tutors, volunteers, families, and friends
Date: Friday, 9/6
Time: 10am – 11am
Location: 3 Salem St. Worcester, 01608, Welcome Desk on the first floor
Sign up for the tour TODAY!

FREE Financial Education Workshop on 8/30, 10am-11am

Join us this Friday as we welcome one of our guest teachers, Brittany Haley, a financial literacy educator of Leominster Credit Union. She will teach us how to manage our money, open a bank account, budget, apply for a credit card, and more.

Date: Friday 8/30, 10:00am
Zoom link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/83122486324


Improve Your English by Helping Your Child Practice Reading!

Join us this Friday as we welcome special guest Rezarta Reso, Youth Services Librarian of the Worcester Public Library. She will share with us information to help us learn about Summer Reading at the Library and other great services for children and families. Together, you and your family can participate and improve both your children’s and your reading skills through book selection, programs, and activities in the Children’s Center of the Library.

Dates: Friday: August 9, 2024
Time: 9:00 am-9:45 am
Zoom link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/83122486324


Sign up for training opportunities for good jobs today!

The Worcester Jobs Fund continues to provide FREE training opportunities for residents to prepare for good jobs!
They are currently recruiting for:

  • Certified Clinical Medical Assistant
  • Pharmacy Technician
  • Building Pathways Pre-Apprenticeship Program 
  • 7D Van Driving Training 

Sign up for information sessions for training opportunities for good jobs today! (Click on links on a pdf flyer by clicking the image below.)
For more information, contact  Anh Dao, Worcester Jobs Fund Assistant, Email: DaoA@masshirecentral.com Office: 508-453-6847 Cell: 774-418-1234


Interested in becoming a tutor to change someone’s life?

Join us for Tutor Orientation on Thursday, August 1st,  6:30pm- 7:30pm on Zoom.

Sign up today at http://tinyurl.com/3c3esrfs

Read more about becoming a volunteer tutor. 

 


Want to know more about FREE Training Opportunities for Good Jobs? 

Anh Dao, Program Assistant of Worcester Jobs Fund, invites you to learn about a variety of Worcester Jobs Fund programs and how to apply, available to a limited number of Worcester County residents at no cost.

Dates: Friday: July 26 2024
Time: 10:00 am-11:00 am
Zoom link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/83122486324


LVGW Newsletter – June 2024

In This Issue:

  • Greetings from LVGW
  • Welcome & Farewell
  • New Tutoring Opportunity
  • English and Community Resources
  • Student Accomplishments
  • Student Testimonials
  • Support LVGW


Looking for a job? Attend this MassHire Information Session!

MassHire: Career and employment resources and services 

Bill Starr, Job Developer/Recruiter of MassHire, invites you to learn about MassHire Career Center programs including  resources and services available to you at no cost, including career counseling, resume writing support, interview preparation and access to hiring events and training opportunities.

Dates: Friday: July 19 2024
Time: 10:00 am-11:00 am
Zoom link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/83122486324 

 


Looking for educational opportunities to reach your career goals? Attend this QCC Information Session!

Peter Soucy, Admissions Recruitment Counselor of QCC invites you to learn about a wide array of programs and services designed to help you achieve your educational and career goals. He will talk about degree and certificate programs, Workforce Development training programs, GED/HiSET classes, Free Tuition for Students over 25 programs, as well as financial aid and grant funding opportunities.
Dates: Friday: July 12
Time: 10:00 am-11:00 am
Zoom link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/83122486324

 


LVGW Newsletter – June 2024

In This Issue:

  • Greetings from LVGW
  • Welcome & Farewell
  • New Tutoring Opportunity
  • English and Community Resources
  • Student Accomplishments
  • Student Testimonials
  • Support LVGW

 


Summer Semester 2024: June 10 – August 16 (no class on 6/19 & 7/4)

In-Person Registration: May 20 – June 6 (Please bring your cell phone and know how to use your email and WhatsApp accounts on your phone.)

Registration Hours:
90 Madison St. 303a   M – Th 9 am – 12 pm
3 Salem St. Room 332 M – Th 11 am – 5 pm


Congratulations on completing the 2024 Spring Classes!
Dear Students and teachers,
Congratulations on completing the 2024 Spring Classes!
We wish you a safe and happy upcoming Summer!

Interested in becoming a tutor? Sign up for Tutor Information Session Today!

Interested in becoming a tutor to change someone’s life? Join us for Tutor Orientation on Thursday, May 16th, 6:00pm – 7:30pm on Zoom.

Sign up today at http://tinyurl.com/3c3esrfs

 


LVGW Spring Newsletter

In This Issue:

  • Greetings from LVGW
  • Welcome Students & Teachers
  • New Board Members and Teacher
  • For Students: Career and Communication Readiness Workshops
  • For Volunteers: Tutor Orientation
  • Events: LVGW Spring Field Trip
  • Thank You Letter
  • Support LVGW
 Read the newsletter

Never Miss a Thing! Sign up for the LVGW Quarterly Newsletter Today!
If you have not already done so, please sign up today and join our email list to receive the LVGW quarterly newsletter. Click the link to sign up: http://tinyurl.com/5xhatdsv

 


Thank You for Your Support!
We are so grateful to the corporations, foundations, and individuals who continue to support our mission of providing English language literacy skills to the Greater Worcester community. Thank you for your generosity. If you would like to support our mission and are interested in donating to LVGW please click here: http://tinyurl.com/mr3bev3p or mail your check to the address below.

 


Sign up for Resume, Interview and American English Pronunciation Series Today!

LVGW invites you to FREE upcoming Career Workshops and Communication Readiness. Sign-up below for this great opportunity by scanning the QR Code. Or register here: http://tinyurl.com/2582ja48 


Welcome Students and Teachers for Spring 2024

LVGW welcomes new and returning students and teachers to our Spring session of ESOL Classes. We wish our students a successful 10 weeks of learning and becoming a better English speaker.


MassReconnect: Free Community College for Adults 25+

Massachusetts residents 25 years of age or older can take advantage of this opportunity to earn an associate degree or certificate for free at any of the Commonwealth’s 15 public community colleges. Read more here. 

 

 


Interested in becoming a tutor to change someone’s life? Sign up for Tutor Orientation

If you or your friends are interested in becoming a tutor to change someone’s life? Join us for Tutor Orientation on Thursday, January 25th, 6:00pm – 7:30pm on Zoom.

Sign up today at http://tinyurl.com/3c3esrfs


Spring 2024 ESOL Courses: In Person Registration Dates

SPRING 2024 ESOL Courses: Jan. 29 – April 13
(10-week courses in person and online)

In person registration Dates: January 8 – January 26, 2024 (Closed on Jan 15) (Flyer.pdf)

Registration Locations and Hours:

  • 90 Madison St. 303a M – F 9 am – 1 pm
  • Salem St. Room 332 M – F 11 am – 5 pm

(Staff will help you select a class, join your WhatsApp class group, and show you how to access your Zoom on your cell phone. Please make sure to bring your cell phone and know log-ins for your app store and your email account.)


Thank you for a fun and delicious evening!

Thank you all for joining us at LVGW’s International Potluck Party on 12/13/23! It was a pleasure seeing so many students, teachers, tutors, board members, volunteers, staff, friends, and families all in the same room conversing, eating together, sharing stories and having fun!!! We are so thankful and overjoyed for your participation. See more photos at https://www.facebook.com/lvgw.org/


International Potluck Party

You and your family are invited to LVGW International Potluck Party to celebrate our students, tutors, teachers, friends, and families during this special time of year! Please bring a traditional family food from your home country for everyone to share. Food, fun, and a festive time for all.
Date/Time: 12/13/23 4:30 pm – 6:30 pm
Location: 3 Salem Sq. Saxe Room.

Please sign up here.


Today is the Day! HELP US RAISE JUST $900!!!
Today’s the day! This Giving Tuesday, LVGW is working to fundraise just $900 to provide 18 hours of Free training to another 15 new volunteer tutors. Click this link to donate now at https://www.lvgw.org/donors/donate-now/
If you plan to donate via a check or donate online late in the day, you may use this pledge form at https://tinyurl.com/2vyy9c36

This Giving Tuesday, help Literacy Volunteers of Greater Worcester reach our goal of raising $900. For just $900, LVGW can provide 18 hours of FREE training to 15 new volunteer tutors.Last year, our tutors devoted 3,500+ hours to teaching adult learners. You have the power to promote the causes that make a difference in our community. Click here to see how to donate by check and/or online. 

 


November 1, 2023

Thank You, Greater Worcester Community Foundation!

We are thrilled to announce that Literacy Volunteers of Greater Worcester has been awarded a 2023 Community Grant from Greater Worcester Community Foundation for $25,000 for General Operating Support. Thank you, GWCF!

 Read more about GWCG 2023 Community Grants


October 20, 2023

Make a Difference. Volunteer at LVGW!

If you would like to volunteer at LVGW, there are many ways for you to get involved.

  1. If you would like to be a tutor, follow instructions on this page.
  2. If you want to serve on LVGW Board, find more information about LVGW Board Directors page.
  3. If you would like to become an office volunteer, please fill out this form.


October 19, 2023
Thank you all for joining us at our Annual LVGW Meeting and in celebrating with us LVGW’s 50th Anniversary! Guest speaker Tim Garvin, United Way President & CEO. Follow us at LVGW Facebook for more information.

October 9, 2023
You Are Invited to Our Annual Meeting on October 18th!
You are invited to join us at our Annual Meeting and celebrate 50 years on Wednesday, October 18th.
With special guest speaker Tim Garvin, President and CEO of United Way of Central Mass. Please, RSVP here: https://bit.ly/48BBFIp
AGENDA:
Program Update, Special Guest Speaker, Board Statement, Financial Report, New Officers, Awards. Refreshments will be served.

Make a Difference. Volunteer at LVGW!

December 22, 2024 by Cuong Huynh

As a volunteer with Literacy Volunteers of Greater Worcester you have the opportunity to change the lives of our students by becoming a

  • Tutor
  • English Conversation Partner
  • Board Member
  • Office/Teacher Assistant
  • Grant Writer
  • Fundraising Assistant
  • Event Assistant
  • WordPress/Website

If you are interested in volunteering at LVGW, please fill out this form first. 

Our volunteers come from all walks of life, but all share in the desire to LVGW to help a fellow community member learn how to speak, read, and write in English. Here are their stories.

Make a Difference. Volunteer at LVGW!

June 3, 2024 by Cuong Huynh

As a volunteer with Literacy Volunteers of Greater Worcester you have the opportunity to change the lives of our students by becoming a

  • Tutor
  • English Conversation Partner
  • Board Member
  • Office/Teacher Assistant
  • Grant Writer
  • Fundraising Assistant
  • Event Assistant
  • WordPress/Website

If you are interested in volunteering at LVGW, please fill out this form first. 

Our volunteers come from all walks of life, but all share in the desire to LVGW to help a fellow community member learn how to speak, read, and write in English. Here are their stories.

LVGW Volunteer Stories!

June 3, 2024 by Cuong Huynh

Volunteer Board Members

My name is Tori Buerschaper and I am the Executive Director of Community Harvest Project, a nonprofit farm that grows produce for hunger relief, and a Worcester resident. After the 2016 election I wanted to find a way to support the vibrant immigrant population in Worcester and started volunteering with LVGW as a tutor in 2017. I have experience with fundraising in my day job, and was asked to join the fundraising committee and then the board where I now serve as President and Clerk. LVGW students are some of the most driven, interesting, and wonderful people I have met in our city. I am thrilled to lend my nonprofit management experience to such a small but mighty organization to help local English language learners thrive.

 

 

  I’m Ilka Kostka, and I’ve been involved with Literacy Volunteers of Greater Worcester (LVGW)
since September 2022. I was first an English language tutor and then joined the Board of
Directors. I enjoy discussing curricular and programmatic issues, creating and delivering
workshops for students, and working with the Board to carry out the mission of the organization.
I’m currently a full-time professor at Northeastern University in Boston, where I teach a range of
English language courses to undergraduate and graduate international students. I’m so proud to
be part of LVGW and to have the opportunity to use my passion for English language education
to support learners in the Worcester area.

 

My name is Raquel Mota-Hays, and I have a strong passion for personal growth and community development. I work as a Wraparound at Worcester Public School, where I consistently strive to promote literacy and passionately advocate for ESOL students. I have a degree in law from a university in Brazil and an Associate’s degree in paralegal studies and psychology from Bunker Hill Community College. These qualifications significantly enhance my skillset and enable me to bring a unique perspective to my work. I am honored to serve on  and contribute my expertise to this exceptional team that aims to deliver the best for the Worcester community.

 

 

My name is Hilda Rosa Maldonado, originally from Canóvanas, Puerto Rico and currently serving the community of Worcester, MA as Program Director at Green Island Neighborhood Center, a program of Friendly House, Inc. With a background in Education from the Inter-American University of Puerto Rico, my interest in continuing my college studies was born. In 2023 I was able to complete a Human Services Associate of Science Degree from Quinsigamond Community College.

Today, I am pleased to serve on the LVGW Board of Directors, with the purpose of continuing to make a difference in people’s lives to do better. Understanding that my skills and years of experience could be of great benefit to impact others, it’s my desire to be an advocate and voice for this community.

 

 

My name is Anyeliny Lamptey, I was born in San Francisco de Macorís in the Dominican Republic, raised in Lawrence MA but call Worcester my home for over 8 years. I am currently a Senior Community Relations Representative at Point32 Health. I graduated from Saint Michael’s College in Colchester VT 2014 with a BA degree in Political Science.

I have recently joined the LVGW Board of Directors with the hopes of using my passion for social justice and community building to help build on the mission.

Volunteer Tutors

 

 

I am Rosa Mumbiela, a Spanish teacher living here in MA for her second year although I was living in Texas for 3 more. I’m one of the new tutors of LVGW. I decided to join you because I perfectly understand what it means to be in a foreign speaking country and I wanted to help to anyone who needs it. Thank you for giving me such a great opportunity.

 

 

My name is Faith. I visited Worcester in 2005 and I never left. Worcester is a pretty city and there are people from all over the world here which is exciting. I had worked with other ESOL programs in NC, CA and NY, so I decided to visit Literacy Volunteers of Greater Worcester to see if I could volunteer.  The staff was very friendly and inviting and I felt very comfortable. I joined as a tutor because it is important to me to help others. I also knew from experience that coming to live in another country and not knowing the language was not easy and I needed all the help I could find. Tutoring someone means helping them learn a new language, learn about other resources available for them, and sharing my own experiences. Many times I became friends with my students and we invited each other to our homes, sometimes shopped together, learned about each other’s cultures and changed each others lives. I love tutoring and being part of the family of Literacy Volunteers because it’s one of the best things in my life.

 

My name is Gary Tuthill and I’ve been working with Bijan Mohammadi since completing my tutor training in the Winter of 2013. I’m retired from computer programming and this is my first tutoring effort. Bijan is a pleasure to work with, and we’ve become good friends. Much of our time together has been conversation, including job application discussions, house buying evaluation and the history, culture and geography of Iran. While already able to handle the basics of life in Massachusetts, Bijan has become much more comfortable and skilled in communication in English.

The staff at Literacy Volunteers is enthusiastic, helpful and professional. My tutor training was thorough, and I feel well-prepared and supported in my work with Bijan. The organization’s efforts are so important in helping immigrants better cope with our language and culture.

 

My name is Darrelyn and I have been a tutor for almost a year and a half.  I have always wanted to be a Literacy Volunteer and a few years ago, I finally had the time to devote to it.  I did not have any teaching experience before this, but the training program and the support that is available gave me the confidence to become a tutor.  I meet with Ban, my student, every week and we work on speaking, reading and comprehension, listening skills using different strategies.  Ban has made great progress and she is a motivated and enthusiastic learner.

This experience has been so meaningful and rewarding for me.  Ban is my student but also has become a friend.  She has taught me many things about her culture and country.  She is a wonderful cook and has spoiled me and my family with many delicious dishes!

 

My name is John Matraia and I have been volunteer with Literacy Volunteers for two years. I am currently working with my third student, Kwabena Boakye. He has been in the United States for five years. We have been working together weekly for several months and Kwabena is making excellent progress, as he is very diligent about his class work.

In addition to working full time, Kwabena also works part time whenever he is needed. Being a member of his Church is a very important part of his life and has helped him to develop a network of friends. His long‐ term goal is to bring his children to America at some point in the future. They are currently in school in Ghana.

 

My name is Jean Bowker. My student’s name is Janaq Rungollari. I became a literacy tutor almost 2 years ago. As a former teacher of reading and language, I enjoy working and seeing the gains my student has made. I was proud to attend the ceremony and see Janaq become a U.S. Citizen as I tutored him in this area also. Janaq has been a wonderful student and I have learned so much from him.

Literacy Volunteers provides a valuable service to immigrants to give them the skills to become productive and literate citizens. It also provides tutors with a greater understanding of the hardships many of our immigrants face. As tutors we make a difference in more ways than learning, and serve as mentors when there are problems faced by students new in this country.

 

My name is Bob Laperriere. I tutor 2 students, Durga Khawas from Bhutan, and Tha Shi Wah, from Burma. Both are refugee immigrants with remarkable life stories. I became a tutor last summer. I retired from the postal service in 2012 as a letter carrier and was looking for some interesting things to do so, among other things, I ended up as a tutor with Literacy Volunteers.

I had no idea how much fun it would be to meet these fascinating, gracious, gentle people that I have come to respect and love. I think I get more out of these relationships of learning than they do. I grew up in a poor French-Canadian family surrounded by others from Quebec who had immigrated to Lowell, Lawrence and Haverhill to work in the mills and shoe shops. I remember the struggles I saw my grandparents and my parents made to improve their lives and can really empathize with these new visitors to America.

On Christmas Eve I received the amazing news that Durga Khawas had passed the US Citizenship test. That truly astounded me as I knew the language disabilities he struggles with. His positive, very hardworking spirit and his clever methods for memorizing language were rewarded. I have learned a lot from both of my students.

Make a Difference. Volunteer at LVGW!

May 28, 2024 by Cuong Huynh

As a volunteer with Literacy Volunteers of Greater Worcester you have the opportunity to change the lives of our students by becoming a

  • Tutor
  • English Conversation Partner
  • Board Member
  • Office/Teacher Assistant
  • Grant Writer
  • Fundraising Assistant
  • Event Assistant
  • WordPress/Website

If you are interested in volunteering at LVGW, please fill out this form first. 

Our volunteers come from all walks of life, but all share in the desire to LVGW to help a fellow community member learn how to speak, read, and write in English. Here are their stories.

Make a Difference. Volunteer at LVGW!

April 24, 2024 by Cuong Huynh

As a volunteer with Literacy Volunteers of Greater Worcester you have the opportunity to change the lives of our students by becoming a

  • Tutor
  • English Conversation Partner
  • Board Member
  • Office/Teacher Assistant
  • Grant Writer
  • Fundraising Assistant
  • Event Assistant
  • WordPress/Website

If you are interested in volunteering at LVGW, please fill out this form first. 

Our volunteers come from all walks of life, but all share in the desire to LVGW to help a fellow community member learn how to speak, read, and write in English. Here are their stories.

LVGW Volunteer Stories.

March 27, 2024 by Cuong Huynh

Volunteer Board Members

 

My name is Tori Buerschaper and I am the Executive Director of Community Harvest Project, a nonprofit farm that grows produce for hunger relief, and a Worcester resident. After the 2016 election I wanted to find a way to support the vibrant immigrant population in Worcester and started volunteering with LVGW as a tutor in 2017. I have experience with fundraising in my day job, and was asked to join the fundraising committee and then the board where I now serve as President and Clerk. LVGW students are some of the most driven, interesting, and wonderful people I have met in our city. I am thrilled to lend my nonprofit management experience to such a small but mighty organization to help local English language learners thrive.

 

 

 

  I’m Ilka Kostka, and I’ve been involved with Literacy Volunteers of Greater Worcester (LVGW)
since September 2022. I was first an English language tutor and then joined the Board of
Directors. I enjoy discussing curricular and programmatic issues, creating and delivering
workshops for students, and working with the Board to carry out the mission of the organization.
I’m currently a full-time professor at Northeastern University in Boston, where I teach a range of
English language courses to undergraduate and graduate international students. I’m so proud to
be part of LVGW and to have the opportunity to use my passion for English language education
to support learners in the Worcester area.

 

My name is Raquel Mota-Hays, and I have a strong passion for personal growth and community development. I work as a Wraparound at Worcester Public School, where I consistently strive to promote literacy and passionately advocate for ESOL students. I have a degree in law from a university in Brazil and an Associate’s degree in paralegal studies and psychology from Bunker Hill Community College. These qualifications significantly enhance my skillset and enable me to bring a unique perspective to my work. I am honored to serve on  and contribute my expertise to this exceptional team that aims to deliver the best for the Worcester community.

 

 

My name is Hilda Rosa Maldonado, originally from Canóvanas, Puerto Rico and currently serving the community of Worcester, MA as Program Director at Green Island Neighborhood Center, a program of Friendly House, Inc. With a background in Education from the Inter-American University of Puerto Rico, my interest in continuing my college studies was born. In 2023 I was able to complete a Human Services Associate of Science Degree from Quinsigamond Community College.

Today, I am pleased to serve on the LVGW Board of Directors, with the purpose of continuing to make a difference in people’s lives to do better. Understanding that my skills and years of experience could be of great benefit to impact others, it’s my desire to be an advocate and voice for this community.

Volunteer Tutors

My name is Faith. I visited Worcester in 2005 and I never left. Worcester is a pretty city and there are people from all over the world here which is exciting. I had worked with other ESOL programs in NC, CA and NY, so I decided to visit Literacy Volunteers of Greater Worcester to see if I could volunteer.  The staff was very friendly and inviting and I felt very comfortable. I joined as a tutor because it is important to me to help others. I also knew from experience that coming to live in another country and not knowing the language was not easy and I needed all the help I could find. Tutoring someone means helping them learn a new language, learn about other resources available for them, and sharing my own experiences. Many times I became friends with my students and we invited each other to our homes, sometimes shopped together, learned about each other’s cultures and changed each others lives. I love tutoring and being part of the family of Literacy Volunteers because it’s one of the best things in my life.

 

My name is Gary Tuthill and I’ve been working with Bijan Mohammadi since completing my tutor training in the Winter of 2013. I’m retired from computer programming and this is my first tutoring effort. Bijan is a pleasure to work with, and we’ve become good friends. Much of our time together has been conversation, including job application discussions, house buying evaluation and the history, culture and geography of Iran. While already able to handle the basics of life in Massachusetts, Bijan has become much more comfortable and skilled in communication in English.

The staff at Literacy Volunteers is enthusiastic, helpful and professional. My tutor training was thorough, and I feel well-prepared and supported in my work with Bijan. The organization’s efforts are so important in helping immigrants better cope with our language and culture.

 

My name is Darrelyn and I have been a tutor for almost a year and a half.  I have always wanted to be a Literacy Volunteer and a few years ago, I finally had the time to devote to it.  I did not have any teaching experience before this, but the training program and the support that is available gave me the confidence to become a tutor.  I meet with Ban, my student, every week and we work on speaking, reading and comprehension, listening skills using different strategies.  Ban has made great progress and she is a motivated and enthusiastic learner.

This experience has been so meaningful and rewarding for me.  Ban is my student but also has become a friend.  She has taught me many things about her culture and country.  She is a wonderful cook and has spoiled me and my family with many delicious dishes!

 

My name is John Matraia and I have been volunteer with Literacy Volunteers for two years. I am currently working with my third student, Kwabena Boakye. He has been in the United States for five years. We have been working together weekly for several months and Kwabena is making excellent progress, as he is very diligent about his class work.

In addition to working full time, Kwabena also works part time whenever he is needed. Being a member of his Church is a very important part of his life and has helped him to develop a network of friends. His long‐ term goal is to bring his children to America at some point in the future. They are currently in school in Ghana.

 

My name is Jean Bowker. My student’s name is Janaq Rungollari. I became a literacy tutor almost 2 years ago. As a former teacher of reading and language, I enjoy working and seeing the gains my student has made. I was proud to attend the ceremony and see Janaq become a U.S. Citizen as I tutored him in this area also. Janaq has been a wonderful student and I have learned so much from him.

Literacy Volunteers provides a valuable service to immigrants to give them the skills to become productive and literate citizens. It also provides tutors with a greater understanding of the hardships many of our immigrants face. As tutors we make a difference in more ways than learning, and serve as mentors when there are problems faced by students new in this country.

 

My name is Bob Laperriere. I tutor 2 students, Durga Khawas from Bhutan, and Tha Shi Wah, from Burma. Both are refugee immigrants with remarkable life stories. I became a tutor last summer. I retired from the postal service in 2012 as a letter carrier and was looking for some interesting things to do so, among other things, I ended up as a tutor with Literacy Volunteers.

I had no idea how much fun it would be to meet these fascinating, gracious, gentle people that I have come to respect and love. I think I get more out of these relationships of learning than they do. I grew up in a poor French-Canadian family surrounded by others from Quebec who had immigrated to Lowell, Lawrence and Haverhill to work in the mills and shoe shops. I remember the struggles I saw my grandparents and my parents made to improve their lives and can really empathize with these new visitors to America.

On Christmas Eve I received the amazing news that Durga Khawas had passed the US Citizenship test. That truly astounded me as I knew the language disabilities he struggles with. His positive, very hardworking spirit and his clever methods for memorizing language were rewarded. I have learned a lot from both of my students.

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