Every year in Newark, adults want to return to school to complete their high school education. These adults seek to study the math, reading, writing, science, technology and other skills they need to earn a high school equivalency credential (formerly known as GED) to fulfill personal goals, advance their careers or attend college. However, the programs available to adult learners in Newark are limited.
Newark Shared Ministries, a collaboration of urban and suburban parishes in the Diocese of Newark, is launching a High School Equivalency Tutoring Program this fall to serve the underserved adult learner population in Newark’s Central Ward. They are currently looking for Tutors to work in high school equivalency classrooms at The House of Prayer, Mentors to walk with our adult learners throughout their journey, and Administrative Volunteers to assist in the day-to-day work of the HSE program.
All volunteers become a valued part of the class, giving students more support and allowing them to progress faster. Tutors and Mentors will work one-on-one with a student who is struggling or needs a boost, or work with the whole class to provide practical and moral support.
Volunteers meet weekly or bi-weekly with the class. HSE tutoring sessions are offered on Mondays and Wednesdays from 10 a.m. until 12 p.m. at the House of Prayer in Newark. They will work with you to find a position that suits your schedule, interests and areas of expertise. The target program start date is Monday, October 3.
No formal teaching/tutoring experience is needed – just good communication skills, a desire to help and willingness to learn.
Volunteers must attend one volunteer training session, which will be provided three times throughout the month of September at The House of Prayer (407 Broad St., Newark).
Information sessions will be offered at Christ Church (Short Hills), St. Paul’s (Chatham), and The House of Prayer (Newark) throughout the summer. To schedule an information session at your church or to volunteer, please contact:
Chris Whitaker
cwhitaker@christchurchshorthills.org
973-379-2898 ext. 111
Newark Shared Ministry was featured in a Mission Minute video at the 2016 Annual Diocesan Convention. Watch the video.
Volunteer Qualifications
- Be dependable and prompt;
- Be able to commit to 10-12 sessions (weekly or bi-weekly);
- Be able to relate well to a variety of people;
- Be willing to maintain the confidentiality of the lessons;
- A college degree is encouraged, but not required (college students are encouraged to volunteer);
- Display good listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills;
- Be flexible; Be friendly; Be patient; Be optimistic; and
- Have a good sense of humor.
Fringe Benefits
- Increased understanding and appreciation of different values, cultures, and lifestyles;
- Increased skill in creative problem solving;
- Sense of belonging to a group focused on a common goal;
- Sense of accomplishment.
