Help English Language Learners Build Confidence, Communication Skills, and Community Connections!
The Allegheny Intermediate Unit's Adult Education ESL Program is seeking volunteers to serve as Conversation Partners and support small-group learning opportunities for adult English language learners.
Conversation Partners work directly with current ESL students to provide additional opportunities to practice speaking, listening, reading, and everyday communication in English. Through informal conversations and guided activities, volunteers help students build confidence, strengthen their language skills, and apply what they are learning in the classroom to real-life situations.
Depending on student needs and volunteer interests, conversation sessions may focus on:
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Everyday Conversation: Practicing English through informal discussions about daily life, family, community, and everyday experiences.
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Citizenship Preparation: Providing additional opportunities to study U.S. history, civics, and citizenship-related vocabulary and questions.
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Workplace English: Practicing job-related vocabulary, workplace communication, interview skills, and other employment-related language.
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Small-Group Conversation: Working with a small group of students to encourage participation, conversation, and peer learning.
Volunteer Commitment and Expectations
We welcome volunteers who can contribute as little as one hour per week. Scheduling can be flexible based on volunteer availability and student needs.
To ensure consistency and continued progress, students participating in conversation sessions must also be enrolled in and regularly attend the ESL program's instructional classes. Conversation Partners are intended to supplement classroom instruction, providing students with additional practice and individualized support.
Make a Difference!
You do not need to be a certified teacher or have previous ESL teaching experience to volunteer. We are looking for patient, encouraging individuals who enjoy working with people from diverse backgrounds and want to help others succeed.
A little time and conversation can make a lasting difference in someone's ability to communicate, participate in their community, pursue employment, and achieve personal goals.
Share your time. Start a conversation. Make a difference.