Virtual Volunteer

Opportunity

 
 

ESL Classes

Volunteer ESL Facilitator

The ESL Facilitator volunteer position consists of conducting English language classes online, 1-on-1 or (3-to-1) with adults from immigrant and refugee communities, primarily in Oregon. Interested applicants do not need to have prior experience as an ESL teacher to get involved. 

This role is… 

Transformative: Volunteers can work directly with members of the immigrant and refugee community to provide the knowledge and skills needed to change a person’s life. The individual/small group format of the English Language Program allows volunteers to tailor the classes to the specific needs of the English learner(s) and help them achieve their goals with the English language.

Interpersonal: Building rapport with students is one of the focal points of this program so volunteers can foster close relationships with their students. The program allows for student/volunteer teacher pairings to work together for as long as both parties would like to participate in this program.

Intercultural: This opportunity creates a space for mutual development of intercultural competency. Both the learner and teacher get an opportunity to learn how to navigate and develop awareness, attitudes, knowledge, and skills to effectively and appropriately communicate with people of other cultures.

Skills and Attributes

  • Be 18 years of age or older 

  • Fluency in English 

  • Desire to work with and build relationships with immigrants and refugees 

  • Flexibility, empathy, enthusiasm, and openness 

  • Willingness to examine one’s own privileges/cultural upbringing 

  • Willingness to be awkward, try new things, take direction, give direction 

Facilitator Responsibilities 

  • Plan lessons by drawing inspiration from weekly topics posted on Better Impact/the Torus WhatsApp group 

  • Participate in 2 other facilitator's classes (2-4 if you are a practicum participant) before being matched with your own learner

  • Teach 1-2 hours per week + spend 30-60 minutes on prep and reporting

  • Promptly communicate with all staff members, learners, and facilitators

  • Enthusiastically motivate and gently push learners out of their comfort zone

  • Keep all class participants engaged

  • Respond calmly, humorously, and decisively to the challenges that present themselves

Experience 

  • No experience as an ESL teacher is required for applicants residing in the U.S. 

  • Applicants applying from outside of the U.S. must provide proof of English ability 

commitment

Minimum 4-6 weeks (but preferably 3-6 months)

Compensation

This is an unpaid volunteer position 

Work Location 

Remote