A little about me:
I am a former schoolteacher (elementary and special education). I have been fortunate enough, due to my business and my wife's job, to have the time to help raise my kids. I can not imagine not being able to read a story to them. There are people out there who do not have the pleasure of seeing their children's eyes widen at an exciting part of the story. I can not begin to relate to trying to deal with daily life not knowing how to read. That is why I have had my program for five years. My program is free and confidential, which are two things that I feel to be very important. Obviously, you will not make any money in this type of endeavor, but the rewards are great. There are grants out there, but I have not found a need to go that route yet. To each their own.
The hardest part is waiting to hear from people who want to learn to read. I have advertised through the local cable station, on the radio (public service announcements) and by printing/putting up posters. Word of mouth has helped. Most radio stations will be more than happy to air a short ad about a free community reading program. Patience is the key. It was four months until I received a call from someone wanting to use my services.
It is a good idea to try to enlist volunteers who, in times of being short on time, can help tutor other students. You do not have to have a doctorate to teach a person how to read. Patience, understanding, a pleasant attitude and time are what is needed. Try to gear the material to the reading ability of the student. Try to find out the interests/hobbies of the student and get reading materials that cover those interests. I devised a form that I use every time I get new students; it helps me in finding out their interests.
NOW FOR THE REST OF THE PROGRAM
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