WHAT WE DO

We teach adults to read.

The SLC provides one-on-one tutoring free of charge to adult non-readers and adults who need to improve their reading skills.  We use a proven method called the Laubach Way to Reading that teaches adults as quickly and painlessly as possible.  One of the reasons it’s so successful is that students work one-on-one with a dedicated volunteer tutor at their own rate.  It’s called the Each One Teach One approach.

We Train Tutors.

The SLC provides training and materials for people who are interested in becoming a tutor.  Successful tutors do not need to have any teaching background.  You simply need to know how to read, have the desire to help an adult learn to read, and complete six hours of training. Call the Literacy Office for information about upcoming Tutor Training Workshops.

Place of Tutoring.

Tutoring takes place in a location convenient to both the tutor and the student. In addition to the Suffolk Literacy council Office (located in City of Suffolk Workforce Development Center), tutoring may take place at a library, community center, or work site.

Required Training.

A tutor training workshop teaches tutors to use the Laubach Way to Reading books and how to work with adult students. The workshop generally requires a minimum of six instructional hours. It is usually held on either a Saturdays or two weeknights or two weekdays.

We teach English as a Second Language.

An increasing number of people for whom English is not their first language are moving into Suffolk.  The SLC has a library of materials including teacher’s manuals and student workbooks designed to teach English as a second language.  Tutors are needed to work with these students.  You do not need to know the language of the student that you are tutoring.  Helping someone learn English is an enriching experience. 

We promote family literacy.

• Children from low-income families often do not have books in their homes.  The SLC distributes age-appropriate books through Head Start, the Salvation Army, the Suffolk Homeless Shelter, the Boys and Girls Club, housing developments, and Suffolk Recreation Centers.  Selecting a book of one’s own is an affirming experience that helps build an enjoyment and appreciation of books.

• In Catch ‘Em Early, we partner with the City of Suffolk’s Early Childhood Development Commission, Morgan Memorial Library, and Obici Hospital to provide all new mothers at Sentara Obici Hospital with a video and book that reinforce the benefits of reading to children—beginning in infancy.

For more info, please email us at:

suffolkliteracy@live.com