About Tutoring

Philadelphia is suffering from an epidemic ignored for too long.  This epidemic infiltrates all facets of life not only in Philadelphia but also in the nation. The epidemic—Low literacy affects the lives of an astonishing 22 percent of Philadelphia adults, according to the National Adult Literacy Survey.  This is nearly 10 percent higher than the national average!

These individuals cannot qualify for most jobs paying a living wage and cannot compete in our increasingly technical global economy.  Imagine how your life would be different if you could not read.  If you weren’t able to read, could you perform your job efficiently and effectively?  Could you tackle daily tasks like following medical instructions, sending an e-mail, or ordering at a restaurant?

What if you could help to spread the magic and fulfillment reading brings?  By becoming a volunteer tutor, you can help learners get a better job, or go on to pursue educational or technical training.  As a volunteer tutor, you will not only positively affect the lives of those you tutor, but you will also gain experience in education and build valuable rewarding relationships.

Volunteer tutors at CFL are asked to make a six-month commitment to work in small groups with adult students working to improve their reading, writing, math, or English language skills. No certification is necessary; CFL provides training, all necessary materials, a place to meet, and ongoing support.  Although no certification is needed, a bachelor's degree or current enrollment in a 4-year institution is required.

If you are interested in becoming a tutor, please look at the Orientation schedule. Choose a workshop located in the area of the city in which you would like to tutor, and register by calling the contact person at the listed phone number. Workshops are free and open to the public; in order to attend, you must register in advance.

You can also obtain more information about CFL’s tutoring program by contacting us via email or calling 215.474.1235.