Torus is a new 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization whose mission is to bridge gaps between people and communities by facilitating transformative experiences of language and culture exchange. The Volunteer ESL Facilitator position consists of conducting English language classes online, 1-on-1 with adults from immigrant and refugee communities, primarily in Oregon. Interested applicants do not need to have prior experience as an ESL teacher to get involved.

This role is...

Transformative: Volunteers can work directly with members of the immigrant and refugee community to provide the knowledge and skills needed to change a person’s life. The 1-on-1 format of the English Language Program allows volunteers to tailor the classes to the specific needs of the English learner and help them achieve their goals with the English language.

Interpersonal: Building rapport with students is one of the focal points of this program so volunteers can foster close relationships with their students. The program allows for student/volunteer teacher pairings to work together for as long as both parties would like to participate in this program.

Intercultural: This opportunity creates a space for mutual development of intercultural competency. Both the learner and teacher get an opportunity to learn how to navigate and develop awareness, attitudes, knowledge, and skills to effectively and appropriately communicate with people of other cultures.

Skills and Attributes

Be 18 years of age or older
Intermediate fluency in English
Desire to work with and build relationships with immigrants and refugees
Flexibility, empathy, enthusiasm, and openness
Willingness to examine one’s own privileges/cultural upbringing
Willingness to be awkward, try new things, take direction, give direction
Facilitator Responsibilities

Plan lessons by drawing inspiration from weekly topics posted on Better Impact/the Torus WhatsApp group
Participate in 4 other facilitator's classes before being matched with your own learner
Teach 1-2 hours per week + spend 30-60 minutes on prep and reporting
Promptly communicate with all staff members, shadowers, and facilitators via WhatsApp, text, email, or phone
Enthusiastically motivate and gently push learners out of their comfort zone
Keep all class participants engaged
Respond calmly, humorously, and decisively to the challenges that present themselves
Experience

No experience as an ESL teacher is required for applicants residing in the U.S.
Applicants applying from outside of the U.S. must provide proof of English ability
Compensation

This is an unpaid volunteer position

Work Location

Remote

Please fill out this form if you are interested in volunteering

http://bttr.im/05cjy