How to Get Involved With the Literacy Volunteers of America

The Literacy Volunteers of America (LVA) is now ProLiteracy America, the largest adult literacy organization in the United States. It was established in 2002, with the merger of Laubach Literacy and Literacy Volunteers of America, Inc. ProLiteracy America's 1,200 affiliates are represented in all 50 states and the District of Columbia.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Visit the ProLiteracy America website for a list of affiliates, and find the one closest to you.

2. Contact the individual locations for further information about their current needs.

3. Be prepared to set aside however many hours you'll need for mandatory training in order to become a volunteer instructor.

4. Understand that you'll be expected to commit about 1 1/2 hours of your time each week for at least six months.

5. Consider making a financial donation if you cannot find time to volunteer.

Tips & Warnings

• Consult your local affiliate about becoming a media spokesperson to raise awareness about the organization and its volunteers.
• You need patience to be an effective volunteer and must not allow yourself to become frustrated if any pupil shows little progress.

on 11/22/2005 Literacy Volunteers of America is now part of ProLiteracy Worldwide, so some LVA affiliates have changed their names to reflect this. In Suffolk County, NY, the new name is Literacy Suffolk.