I-CARE Adult Literacy Program

Who can join

Adults who speak English well or communicate through ASL interpreters and want help with basic reading and writing.

Each learner:

• Works with their own tutor.
• Has their own learning plan.
• Learns at a pace that works for them.

“Reading is important because you can understand what you are looking for.” — Current I-CARE Learner

How to join

To find out if I-CARE is a good fit for you:

1. Call the Program Coordinator (604-527-5409)
   to chat or leave a message.
    
2. Meet with the Faculty Coordinator
   for an assessment of your learning needs.
    

Next steps:

1. Once we have reviewed your learning needs, I-CARE will:
   • Work on matching you with a volunteer tutor.
      
2. When the match is complete, you will:
   • Have your own learning plan.
   • Meet with your tutor for two hours every week.
   • Practice your reading and writing skills between tutoring sessions.

Who we are

Individualized Community Adult Reading Education

Our Mandate

I-CARE Adult Literacy Program delivers cost-free, flexible, one-on-one literacy tutoring for English-speaking adults who face fundamental challenges with basic reading and writing.

Our Program

I-CARE offers one-on-one tutoring that is flexible and easy to access. Each learner is matched with a volunteer tutor and receives an individualized learning plan. This plan helps the learner work toward their goals at a pace that works for them. Tutoring sessions take place in safe and convenient community spaces.

Our Learners

I-CARE learners are adults from many different backgrounds who speak English well or communicate through ASL interpreters and want to improve their reading and writing skills for everyday life, work, and personal goals.

Our Philosophy

We believe that:

• Opportunities to learn to read and write are not a privilege but a basic right.
• Everyone is entitled to a second chance at learning.
• We all should have the opportunity to learn to whatever level we can reach.
• Returning to learn basic literacy skills takes courage and this should be recognized and respected.

Our History

The I-CARE Adult Literacy Program began in 1978. It is part of Douglas College and has served the community for more than 40 years. The College provides reliable, cost-free support to help I-CARE run well. This includes tutor training, space for tutoring, learning materials, and staff to manage the program. With this support, I-CARE can use all donated time and resources to help learners directly. This includes one-on-one tutoring and special events in the community that support learning and bring people together.

“For our learners, literacy is the key to so many things: a driver’s license, a citizenship test, a FOODSAFE certificate, the ability to help their kids with homework, or just to read a story together.” — Former I-CARE Faculty Coordinator

Volunteer With I-CARE

Through one-on-one tutoring, volunteers can make a meaningful, long-term impact in their community while helping adult learners achieve their literacy goals.

Who can become a volunteer tutor?

I-CARE Program literacy volunteer tutors help adult learners build confidence and improve reading and writing skills for everyday life. They are committed to helping learners work toward their individual literacy goals.

Who Can Apply?

We expect our tutors to be respectful and patient, bringing kindness and encouragement to every tutoring session. No teaching experience is required, but applicants must enjoy helping others learn.

Applicants must:

• Be at least 19 years old.
• Have a high school diploma.
• Be fluent in English.
• Have strong reading and writing skills in English.
• Pass a criminal record check.

How To Apply?

1. Complete the online application.
   I-CARE Adult Literacy Program Volunteer Tutor Application Form
2. Sit for an interview.
3. Complete reference checks.
4. Pass a criminal record check.

Next Steps:

1. Successfully complete 30 hours of comprehensive training led by the I-CARE Program's Faculty Coordinator.
   Training covers key materials, tutoring techniques, and strategies for supporting adult learners.
2. Successfully complete three 3-hour practicum sessions in a basic literacy classroom.
   Practicum sessions are offered during weekday evenings.
3. Be matched with an adult learner.