“Reading is important because you can understand what you are looking for.” — I-CARE Learner
Do you want to read and write better?
Call us today: 604-527-5409
Email: icare@douglascollege.ca
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. Tutors are trained by instructors from our English Upgrading Department to help adults build basic reading and writing skills. Each learner has their own 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 History
The I-CARE Adult Literacy Program began in 1978. It is part of Douglas College and has been a strong and steady service in the community for over 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.
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.
Who can join the program?
Our Learners
I-CARE learners are English-speaking adults from many different backgrounds. They choose to join the program because they want to improve their basic reading and writing skills. They are ready to learn and have goals they want to reach. Each learner follows a plan that fits their life.
Here is how it works:
- First, learners meet with the Program Coordinator to see if the program is a good fit.
- Next, they meet with the Faculty Coordinator for an assessment. This helps to prepare a learning plan that works for them.
- Then, the program works to match each learner with a tutor.
- Once matched, learners agree to meet with their tutor every week for two hours.
- Learners also agree to practice between meetings to help build their skills.
How to join the program?
“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.”
Who can become a volunteer tutor?
I-CARE tutors are kind and committed volunteers. They bring patience, respect, and a strong desire to help others learn. Tutors come prepared for each meeting and support their learners with care and understanding.
To become a tutor, volunteers must:
• Be at least 19 years old.
• Have a high school diploma.
• Be fluent in English.
• Show strong basic reading and writing skills in English.
• Pass a criminal record check.
Tutors complete about 30 hours of training with instructors from the English Upgrading Department. It covers key materials, teaching techniques, and ways to support adult learners. It also includes three practicum sessions in a basic literacy classroom.