Volunteer

Who Makes a Good Ruta27 Volunteer?

We are always interested in meeting prospective volunteers. We look for reliable individuals who can commit to at least one full term: 12 weeks in the Fall, 12 weeks in the Winter, or 6 weeks in the Spring. We especially welcome volunteers who can commit to more than one term.

Knowledge of Spanish is helpful but not required. The most effective instructors bring enthusiasm, energy, patience, clear communication skills, and the ability to explain language concepts in a simple and understandable way.

Retired Individuals

Many of our instructors are retired professionals who want to give back to the community by helping local Latino residents improve their English. Among our current volunteers are a retired nurse, a former marketing executive, and a retired attorney.

Working Professionals

Some instructors work full-time but dedicate one evening each week to teaching. Our volunteer faculty includes professionals from a variety of fields, including finance, law, and corporate sales.

Educators

A number of our volunteers have backgrounds in education. Among them are former science and English teachers, as well as specialists in learning disabilities. Their classroom experience is a valuable resource for our students.

Spanish-Speaking Volunteers

Some of our instructors are native Spanish speakers, while others learned Spanish as a second language. We also have successful instructors who do not speak Spanish at all. While Spanish can be helpful, it is not a requirement.

In fact, experience learning a foreign language—whether Spanish, French, Italian, or another language—often helps instructors understand the challenges and frustrations students face when learning English.

What matters most is a commitment to our students and a desire to help them succeed.

Please contact Ruta27 at info@ruta27.org