ESOL Volunteer Wiki

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Welcome to the ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) Volunteer Wiki

I am piloting service learning in my ESL (English as a Second Language) classes and have asked students to engage in volunteering at some level and to reflect on their experience in class discussion and in writing. This site is for my students and others to share information about volunteering in the Austin TX area.

Please feel free to add or correct information, comment on your volunteer experience, and make suggestions for additional volunteer options. Your comments will make it easier for others to make volunteer choices. When possible I included information about requirements for time commitment and background check. If corrections are needed, please make them.

Why volunteer?
Why should you volunteer when you already have all you can do with work and family? Here are a few good reasons — besides feeling good about your own life and helping others...

Develop Skills for a Better Job  Volunteer for an organization that focuses on the kind of work you want to do, and you can benefit from the guidance of employees who are specialists in their fields.

Make Career Contacts  Community involvement is one of the best ways to make connections and develop relationships that can lead to the employment you want. It is not unusual for volunteers to end up with paid employment in the agency where they volunteer.

Improve Your English  Meet with new people in the wider Austin area for opportunities to practice your English  .

Create Positive Change in Your Community  Help make Austin a better place to live for you and your family by helping others.