Volunteer Spotlight: Geoff

How long have you been volunteering with TLA?
I began volunteering with The Literacy Alliance in January of 2024, so I guess it’s been about 18 months.

Why did you decide to volunteer at TLA?
Because I’m semi-retired, I’ve been looking for meaningful ways to spend my spare time. One of my degrees is in English education, and I taught high school English for three years a long time ago, so I thought volunteering with The Literacy Alliance might be right up my alley. Beyond that, I strongly believe in the positive impact TLA has on the clients it serves, and I find it gratifying to contribute to those outcomes.

What has been the best part of your experience so far?
The relationships I’ve developed with the students in the classes where I volunteer have been the most rewarding part of this experience. The students have such compelling stories and admirable aspirations. They are incredibly hardworking and serious about the task of learning to navigate a new language. I find myself constantly searching for more effective ways to contribute to their success.

Do you have a favorite volunteer role or task with our organization?
In the classes where I volunteer, the teacher and I often divide the class into two groups to provide more individualized attention around the lesson. When I have the opportunity to work independently with students, I find it especially rewarding.

What have you learned about yourself and/or others through volunteering at The Literacy Alliance?
One thing I’ve realized through my volunteer work is just how challenging it can be to navigate life in a culture where you’re unable to communicate as effectively as you would in your home country. I’ve also discovered that despite those challenges, most of the students I work with maintain a remarkably positive attitude about their futures in this country—and I find that optimism deeply uplifting.

If you were to encourage someone else to volunteer with our organization, what would you say?
I would point out that most people likely already have the skills needed to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those served by The Literacy Alliance. I would also emphasize how helpful, supportive, and appreciative the TLA staff is toward their volunteers.

What is one of your favorite books you would suggest others read?
I read very little nonfiction, but I’m a voracious consumer of novels. I especially love historical fiction, including novels set in the 18th-century American West. My all-time favorite novel is Lonesome Dove by Larry McMurtry. Highly recommended.

Is there anything else you’d like to include?
At a time when deep cuts are being made across the board to agencies serving people in need, I think it’s more important than ever for volunteers to be ready to step up and help fill the gaps where possible—especially at social service organizations like The Literacy Alliance. I hope those who read this will be moved to find a way to get involved.