Volunteers of America Adult Education Center

I have recommended VOA EC as a volunteer opportunity to many friends, most recently yesterday. When volunteers seek an organization to offer their precious time, I think there are a few things--practical and emotional--that they tend to seek in return: an eye-opening experience, an appropriate challenge, gratitude and, in some cases, resume-building material. VOA has filled all of these needs for me. The first day I volunteered, I was struck by how thankful the staff and students are. A director took time to learn talents and hopes, and offered me a challenging project leading students. It's become one of the most fulfilling endeavors of my life. In the year that I've volunteered for VOA, I've gotten to know students whose life stories are inspiring and heartbreaking. I've learned from a competent and patient teacher. My volunteer work has led me to a part-time position as a substitute teacher. And I've been told "thank you" more times than ever in my life.

I've loved my experience volunteering at the VOA. They offer numerous subject choices to volunteers, and it's also nice to be able to volunteer at a school in the evening (after work). I'm tutoring in a math class, and I enjoy being able to work with many different students who have a wide range of abilities. As the previous reviewer noted, the best part of the experience is undoubtedly the excitement and commitment of the students to their work. It's clear that learning is important to them, and they work very hard. It's really rewarding to help them succeed.

This is a really great place to volunteer, I highly recommend it. The students are wonderful - always interested, respectful and pleasant to work with, and always eager to make friends with the teachers and tutors. It's very rewarding seeing them so excited about learning, it's rare to find a group of people as good-natured and grateful. Likewise, the staff and teachers are great, they'll make you feel very welcome and appreciated.