Volunteer at Walnut Creek (Casa Montego): ESL Instructor

Description:

Casa Montego is seeking a volunteer ESL Instructor to lead English classes for residents who have expressed interest in improving their English language skills. The volunteer will help residents practice practical English for everyday communication, such as greetings, shopping, medical appointments, emergencies, asking for help, and accessing services.

Classes may take place weekly or bi-weekly, depending on volunteer availability and resident needs. Scheduling is flexible, with possible class times on Mondays, Wednesdays, or Fridays at 10:00 AM, 11:00 AM, or 3:00 PM, or Tuesdays at 3:00 PM. Each session will last approximately 1 hour. Visitor parking and street parking are usually available, and staff parking may be available depending on the day.

Reports to:

Volunteer Coordinator and the site’s Service Coordinator

Goal of Position:

To help residents strengthen their English language skills so they can better communicate, ask for help, access resources, and participate more confidently in their community.

Specific Tasks:

1. Prepare simple and engaging ESL lessons before each class.
2. Teach practical English for everyday situations, such as greetings, shopping, medical appointments, emergencies, and asking for help.
3. Use a variety of teaching methods, such as worksheets, visuals, verbal practice, and small or large group activities.
4. Support different learning styles and ask residents what works best for them.
5. Answer residents’ questions and gather feedback on topics they would like to learn.
6. Create a welcoming and supportive learning environment.
7. Monitor attendance and ensure all participating residents sign the sign-in sheet.
8. Communicate any material, language, or support needs to the Service Coordinator or Volunteer Coordinator.

Qualifications:

Physical/Age Requirements:

• Able to stand and walk around the classroom for up to one hour during each class.

Skills/Education/Experience:

• Ability to speak Farsi, Mandarin Chinese, or Russian is strongly preferred.
• Clear and audible speaking voice.
• Friendly, patient, dependable, and open-minded.
• Interest in teaching English to adult language learners.
• Interest in working with seniors.
• ESL teaching experience or training is preferred.
• Previous teaching, tutoring, or facilitation experience is helpful but not required.

Benefits to the Volunteer:

1. Help residents build English skills that support daily communication and independence.
2. Support access, inclusion, and community connection within an affordable housing community.
3. Build meaningful relationships with residents over time.
4. Gain teaching, tutoring, and ESL experience with adult learners.
5. Make a meaningful impact by helping residents feel more confident navigating everyday situations.