Literacy Pittsburgh

Dear GPLC.
I'm glad to have been given this experience to you. In the short time I have been in this school, I can tell that learning is extraordinary and the exchange is also cultural. The teachers and staff are friendly, smart, collaborators and respectful. Thanks for helping us to better our lives.
Regards
Victor Anteliz Guerra

Greater Pittsburgh Literacy Council's downtown center is a very nice place to learn English. thank you for all the teachers and the staff

I truly appreciate the help from GPLC in language and career resources. It's beyond my exceptions. Thanks to GPLC, people who work here and all volunteers.

I have been attending GPLC since November 2016 and to the present. I have gained a lot educationally with this non profit school. I appreciate all of the teachers and staff who are there to help. I am continuing to finish school. I have joined my classmates other a FACEBOOK GROUP called GREATER PITTSBURGH LITERACY BREAKFAST CLUB and what we do is post different class assignments and answers and we all are able to tutor via: VIDEO MESSAGE LIVE with one another or different apps that allow about 8 people to video message live at one time. This is a great way to save money, time, gas expenses. I do want to add that we do attend our regular class days also. We had did this for extra help with others who are not getting it . I know how hard it is to be a single parent like myself I have two children a son Paul who is going to be 11 and my daughter Jai'den who will be 6 this upcoming year. I know how it is to be a MOM or DADDY that has limited time but one hour out of the day will help us all succeed. I am so excited to continue my journey through this program . I am interested in graduating and furthering a WELDING degree. I am looking forward for a wonderful rest of my journey and also hope we can make our facebook page viral to allow others in different states or around the globe to gain the education we are and we all can go to the top together. Thanks again
Dorothy Otto
GPLC student

Thanks a lot to this non profit org. I got help in building up my career my accent in american way and to do GED. Hoping to get this sort of help in future too.

I'm so happy to be able to receive my GED from such an amazing program. GPLC is the greatest program around. For everyone who helped me in achieving my goal, thank you so much. It was a challenge, but I did it!

I was searching and searching to find somewhere to study for my GED. I search online and I found GPLC. It took me several days before I called, because I was afraid...of what I wasn't sure. My fear left me when I finally got the courage to pick up the phone and call the number about their free classes. Free was very important to me because I was in a real financial bind. When I called I was told all about the program. It sounded like something I could benefit from so I gave it a try. In April of 2016, I became part of the program. I was excited because the staff were so supportive they made me forget about my fears. I'm so happy that I made that call and went to the orientation session. It was something I'll never forget. I was able to attend classes twice a week, while working too. It was just an awesome fit. Thank you for making me comfortable enough to join your program.

Life changing is what GPLC is all about. Thank you GPLC!

My story is GPLC is a wonderful place to learn. I entered the GED program about a year and I can see my progress. I work, plus I take care of my mother. The organization helped me to see my self worth. I'm so happy that my friend introduced me to such a nice place to learn.
I thank you GPLC.

Thank you doesn't seem to be enough. But thank you just the same. May the people you serve always remember your service to them and may they support your organization as they grow financially themselves. For all your help, I say thank you.

Greater Pittsburgh Literacy Council's downtown center is a very nice place to learn English. I think the staff are organized, kind, and easy to work with. I've been attending classes there for four months and it's been a life changing experience. The instructors are eager and always willing to go the extra mile. I hope that people will financially help your organization so that people will continue to excel and reach there goal.

I want to thank Greater Pittsburgh Literacy Council for all the help they have given me. I'm so thrilled to be learning English.

I never thought I would do it, but I did! Thanks to the staff at GPLC they really helped be to obtain my GED goal. I'm really grateful for my teacher Ms. Kathy. She rocks! Thank you! I'll never forget you.

I want to tell my story about my wonderful experience at GPLC. When I started GPLC I started as an ESL student. As my English progressed, I was able to transfer into the GED program. I'm so thankful that I came to learn English and get my GED. I celebrated with the other graduates on September 9, 2016, by attending a fabulous graduation celebration. It was excellent! This program has been exceptional to me. Thank you so much for all your help!

GPLC far exceeded my expectations in helping me to accomplish my GED goal. I appreciate this organization so much. Thank you and thank you again.

GPLC is a great place to learn English. The teachers are friendly. They help us to improve our English. They help us to live in America. We learn more knowledge. Thank you GPLC!

I had an awesome experience at GPLC! I want to thank all the staff that were kind, courteous, respectful and so much more. It was a delight to study at GPLC. Thank you!

Reach GPLC recommendation, the help they have given me is incredible, not only learn English but it also I have been supported with advice for my immigration status and tax advice for my husband, has also helped me with personal issues. Thank you very much!!!

Gplc helps me a lots，they provide informations about job and education，Helps me practice english，thanks so much！

Thank you for GPLC! I'm learning English at GPLC and it's helping me a lot. Thank to my teachers.

GPLC is a good school to learn English. The people are very nice and helpful.
Thank you GPLC!

Everyone at GPLC has been nothing but amazing! There is no question unanswered. The one on one help I've received has been more than helpful. They help motivate me daily and have tremendous patients.

I was a student at GPLC and they helped me achieve my GED and now I'm a college student. Thank you GPLC

The Council of GPLC is all about helping individuals to achieve their goals. They helped me to achieve my goal in getting my GED. Thank you GPLC!

I want to say "thank you" to GPLC! Your organization helped me prepare for my GED and I passed! Thank you!

I had no plans for furthering my education when a friend recommended the GPLC. Through them and the Urban League I now have my GED and am well on my way to attending a course at Bidwell.

gplc is great place to learn to read,write n speck english for an immigrant like me.

I was looking for a school that could help me to get my GED , my husband went on line to search and we found a few but GPLC was the one that could work with my hours that I work ,was I happy about that, so I started and they are all wonderful people that give to us so that we could attain good in our education , so I am greatful to GPLC for all that they do especial my teacher MR Luke he have help me so much , Thank you for helping GPLC so that they can helps us to go further in life...

i came to GPLC to get my ged i love coming here so i can lean what i have not in high school my teacher here is a great help with what i have to learn math,reading and writing and its a experince here hopefully i get my ged im doing this to show my son if u use ur mind u can do anything u want to do

I learn many useful thing like math to me to understand about taxes.I will able to recognize on sale discounts and figure how much I need when I go to the store to buy that item.

I started coming to the GPLC in early spring to obtain my GED. I didn't have much hope because other programs I joined had failed. The instructors just didn't seem to really care. It was my older cousin who pointed me in the direction of the GPLC, and I'm thankful she did. I've only been apart of the program for a month and I've already seen improvement in my math skills. My instructor is helpful in a way others were not and I'm sure that with her help I'll be getting my GED in no time. I'm very happy with my choice to attend the GPLC's GED prep program.

I am a GP>C student and my name is Tommy L. Lee. My age is 70 and my instructor was Mrs. Baron, she was more then qualified to help us in every way. But as a result, she had to move on! However, Ms. Rue became our next instructor, she gets a one on one closeness with all of her students. Furthermore, my experience before I cam to GPLC, I would struggle with my math and other subjects this is a worse case scenario. After being with GPLC, I have a greater success rate, I credit Mrs. Baron and Ms. Rue for my improvement. There are new students young and old enrolled at GPlC. People from other countries enrolled. So please support this non-profit agency.

Sincerely yours, Tommy L. Lee

Gplc is a great place if you're looking to get your G.E.D , although it offers so much more. With amazing teaching staff and advisors you will learn not only the things needed to obtain your G.E.D ,but also learn where you wanna be in life and the steps needed to get there. My experience here at Gplc has been nothing short of amazing. I've learned so much not only about education but also about myself. I would highly recommend anyone looking to further their education to look into Gplc.

GPLC is a great program for anybody trying to get their G.E.D. or their life on track staff is friendly and professional .The class scheduling is very flexible. I am very happy and satisfied with my time here.

GPLC far exceeded my expectations in helping me to receive my GED. I thought I wouldn't be able to do it, but I did. Thank you all for our help.

My Name is Jaquin , GPLC School is helping me get my GED. My Experience here at GPLC is really great! My Teacher is amazing . She help's me understand everything I need to know on what's going to be on the GED test. Thank you GPLC for giving me a second chance on life.

GPLC did amazing things for me! Picking this school was one of the best choices that I have made as far as furthering my education. They work with your schedule also with you one-on-one. And that is exactly what I needing to succeed.

Thank you GPLC !

I came to GPLC to help achieve my GED. This was not the first program I was apart of so my expectations were low, however; I was greatly impressed after a few classes. Afterwards I feel blessed to have been a student at GPLC. In my few months I achieved my GED diploma thanks to the whole GPLC staff. Ms Rue had a great method of teaching for a group of classmates at different levels we all learned together and she left no one behind which i really enjoyed. She is a teacher I will never forget because not only did she educate me, but she inspired me to go forward in life and pursue my goals. The whole GPLC staff were beyond friendly. The students and staff became basically family to me. GPLC is top notch and so is everyone apart of it.

I like gplc so mush because help me to learn Anglish _computer and have great teacher

tkank for gplc

iyad ziada

GPLC helped me get my G.E.D. and get enrolled in college where I got my business degree.GPLC has continued to help me in my job hunt as well as numerous other related dealings.I continue to use GPLC as their staff has been very helpful to me in my time of need.So please,your support is greatly needed and appreciated. I will get to the next level thanks to your support. Thanx and God Bless!

I am excited to be a student at GPLC. I am working on my GED and things are going great!

To my instructor Kathy, I thank you for all your help.

I just completed my training to become an adult basic education tutor and am blown away by the staff's enthusiasm, dedication, and passion for the mission. They are very talented trainers themselves - keeping the 4 nights of training fun and light-hearted, yet super-impactful. I'm eagerly waiting my first student!

The school helps people a lot with your education and its very simple with everything you want to know so come to gplc and get your education in Pittsburgh its worth the time and day

It was 2009 and I finally decided to get my GED. It’s important to know that I dropped out of middle school and I didn’t learn anything while I was there. The only math problem I learned was two groups of black people plus two opposite neighborhoods equals violence and no education. So when I practiced for my GED I knew nothing but basic elementary stuff. Still I taught myself to multiple and with the help of my mom and brother I learned division. That’s all I knew when I got to GPLC.

Ms. Anita was my teacher and she taught me everything I know about math. We started out with decimals then worked our way up to Geometry. The math was tough and confusing, but what was more confusing than the math was trying to figure out how Ms. Anita made learning it so easy. Not only would she explain it the whole class on the board, she would also sit with her students one on one and make sure we all understood the work before she moved on. Ms. Anita is a great teacher, but even a greater person, and the time I spend in her class is something that I’ll never forget.

After Ms. Anita’s class I would go to Rachel’s class for reading and writing. There was two things I liked about Rachel’s class. One it was fun, and two there was no math. Rachel would sometimes start class off by letting us write essays, afterwards she would go over the essay and correct it for you and show you what you did wrong. When we did reading we would take turns reading out loud, then go over the answers together. Rachel did what a lot of teachers struggle to do or just chose not to do. She made learning fun and she made me look forward to going to school each day. I was told that my score of 710 in the reading section of the GED test was one of the highest scores in the country and almost a perfect score. That wouldn’t have been possible without Rachel.

GPLC isn’t just two teachers. The way I feel about my two teachers is the way other GPLC students feel about their one, two, or three teachers or tutor. GPLC is filled with great wonderful, amazing people from the teachers in class to Ms. Gail at the front desk. My advice to people thinking about going to GPLC is to trust and believe in these people because the second you walk through that door, they believe in you. Thank you GPLC!

I've volunteered for about 8 years. The students learn a lot and so do the volunteers. My time with GPLC is always among the highlights of my week.

I'm excited about GPLC and how they are doing great things in the community. Their organization has helped several people such as myself. Their staff were very helpful, respectful, and caring. I hope only the best for Greater Pittsburgh Literacy Council. You really are an amazing non profit organization.

I attend classes at GPLC and I love it! They are really helping me to achieve my goal in obtaining my GED. I hope to have it before the end of this year. I want to attend the graduation celebration that I hear about so often. Sadly, I was not able to attend their 10th graduation event last Friday, at Macy's due to another commitment. But I'm excited to hear they celebrate their students. You are number one GPLC in serving adults!

On Friday, September 5, 2014 I attened the graduation celebration which was the 10th annual GED grauation for The Greater Pittsburgh Literacy Council and it was the nicest graduation I have been to. Everyone was so very happy and the graduates were over willmed with joy and love. This was my first time going to this event and I am so very glad I went. Everyone did a great job. (GPLC, GOOD LOOKING OUT.)

I was fortunate to be able to take the 2013 GED tests and pass it at GPLC! I will attend the graduation on September 5. I'll dawn my cap and gown proudly. I'm happy I did it! Now I am in nursing school. WOW!

There is now the 2014 version which I heard is so different and much harder. Thank you GPLC staff, you are a GREAT organization!

I cannot speak highly enough of GPLC. While I lived in Pittsburgh, I volunteered as an ESL tutor, and it was a wonderful experience. The training I received when beginning, plus having a mentor tutor and a great supervisor helped me feel at ease going into my first session. The tips and extra materials GPLC provided me for my classes were immensely helpful. I also loved that there was assessment of each student, so that I knew what to focus on, and also whether or not my students were progressing.

On a whole other level, I just loved working with my students—they were extremely dedicated to learning English, and it encouraged me to be as equally dedicated to teaching them. I would recommend volunteering through GPLC to anyone interested.

Greater Pittsburgh Literacy Council's downtown center continues to do great things in helping people like me enhance on their skills that were dormant for so long. I started the program recently and I'm enjoying learning. I was referred by a friend and she said I would not be dissappointed and I'm not. They have an excellent team. To you the staff at GPLC, I say thank you.

I think GPLC is a very helpful program I have been here for 3 months and caught up on a lot of things I forgot when I was in high school. Your can really achieve your goals by coming here and going threw the process of this program.

I called GPLC this year.. I want a better future for myself.. I have 2 kids and I want them to know no matter how old or hard things are you can always make a better life and future for yourself.. I like my teacher she helps me out a lot and she makes understand things a lot better.. so I think is a best place for people to go to better themselves im glad I came here..

I called GPLC in 2009 to inquire about GED classes. At first I was nervous and I didn't know what to expect. Because I didn't think I would be able to learn after having brain surgery. While talking on the phone to a staff person and explaining my situation I still was nervous. The staff person eased my concerns by encouraging me to give it a try. I did! While attending the orientation I was still so nervous. The staff that administrated the test was very nice and undertanding. He made me feel comfortable and unashame. He told me to do my best. When I started classes they helped me a lot. Being in class I was encouraged by my classmates and teacher. I was learning! As I was learnin, I became so excited about working even harder to achieve my goal. The goal of getting my GED. I'm continuing my studies at GPLC and looking forward to passing the GED test and participating in their GED graduation one day. Thank you to all the GPLC staff!

I have been a member of the Advisory Board for many years and have the utmost faith in the leadership and work of GPLC. They know what needs to be done, and they DO it.

Being able to read is one of God's greatest gifts to man. Whether born in an English-speaking country or learning English as a foreigner, the ability to read will enriches every aspect of life.

Any person who is lucky enough to be taken under the wing of GPLC is lucky indeed and will be forever grateful.

Patricia Prattis Jennings

I had a wonderful experience at GPLC. It was a life changing experience. I am so happy for all the help I received from the staff. Thank you all for being so kind. I continue to work on bettering myself so that I can pass it on.

I enjoy my tutoring sessions at the Greater Pittsburgh Literacy Council. I've been attending there six years now. I love it! When I first started I was in a class at the downtown center. After receiving a job at one of the UPMC Hospitals, I continued my studies with a tutor. I'm learning alot and working really hard to reach my GED goal. GPLC has helped me in so many areas. I'm just thankful for the free classes they have. Thank you GPLC!

It's with much appreciation that I say "thank you GPLC". This program is really about serving and helping to make a change in the lives of those that walk through those doors looking to find help. I needed help in my math so that I could take the math part of the GED test. I was lacking in understanding of doing word problems. They confused me. I was afraid of them. I would read the problem over and over all to no avail in how to attack the problem. Once I started class, I was reluctant about answering questions because of the fear of having the wrong answer. I continued to attend class, complete my homework assignments and work hard to master the problems. My teachers were incredible. They believed in me. I'm so happy I continued to go to class. What a difference it made. After being in the program for a couple of years even leaving and returning later, I obtained my goal in passing the math part of the GED test. I'm a product of GPLC. To all the staff thank you for your help. Now, I'm attending CCAC!

Although it's my third month with GPLC, I love to have a class with my tutor. Other than the English class, it is also a good chance to learn about the place I live. I thank so much to all the members of GPLC who gave me an opportunity to learn.

I have been going to GPLC for about three years for their English lessons. This way I can speak with native speakers to better understand the culture and idiomatic expressions. My ultimate goal is to keep my job as a customer service rep at work.

GPLC has great programs and tutors who help me improve my English and give me lots of good experiences!

I came to GPLC in 2012 to learn English. I attended class regular. I was learning the English language and also making friends. My teachers were helpful and willing to help me overcome the barriers that I was facing. After ESL classes, I transitioned into ABE classes to prepare for my GED. I am now taking GED classes. I hope to one day achieve my goal in getting my GED.

I am really grateful for GPLC. Thank you GPLC!

I attended GPLC in 2013. It is a great program and the teachers and volunteers are very helpful. I recieced my GED within a few months from hard work and the understanding from the volunteers. I am very satisfied and greatful for all the help and classes they provided me with. I highly recommend GPLC. They have outstanding staff, great classes, and if you don't understand they are always willing to help.

The Greater Pittsburgh Literacy Council is a great organization to be a part of. The staff goes far out of their way to see that students succeed and grow during their time here. I have seen GPLC change many lives and know they will only continue to change lives of adults around Pittsburgh.

My friend attended the Greater Pittsburgh Literacy Council in 2012 and 2013. In 2013 she reached her goal to enhance in her math skills after being out of school for many years. She always had so many positive things to say about the program, and staff. I'm happy that she was able to find a program that helped her. And she didn't pay anything. So kudos to a wonderful organization that helped my friend. Keep up the wonderful work GPLC!

I had a wonderful experience as a student of GPLC.
Last fall I was panicking about whether I could pass the GED on my own, and feeling a little lost about the whole process since they were changing the format of the GED in 2014. I searched online for local help and found GPLC. I went downtown a couple time for orientation (going over the rules) and a placement test (just to gauge where I was at in Math and English skills) before I was placed in a class I attended twice a week for the next few months. Easy!
I was the victim of an illegitimate homeschooling "education" and I really did not have the math background I needed to pass the GED; on top of that, I'd never taken a standardized test in my life, so I needed guidance. I like math though! I love how there's a journey and a system and a clear answer. The teacher was great about giving clear instructions and examples so that difficult math problems became easy math problems. Every single class, I learned something new.
I was able to take the GED and pass all 4 tests! The GPLC paid the cost ($30 per test) through their scholarship program, which is very generous. (I actually donated that amount back to them during Pittsburgh's annual Day of Giving, but that's a secret.)
Navigating adult education on your own is daunting. I was really relieved to find GPLC and get some guidance through the process.

I want to thank the Greater Pittsburgh Literacy Council because they are giving me a well needed education and are very patient with me. They are helping me fulfill my dreams of getting my GED so I can go onto some sort of other schooling. My goal is to become a Veterinarian Technician.

For all you do for me and others, I say thank you GPLC.

My story is that I attended an ABE orientation session in 2013 at the Homewood Library. After completing the test, I was informed that my scores where too low too go ahead and take the GED test. It was suggested that I attend FREE classes at GPLC. I did! I started Jan. 2013 and I continued all year twice a week for the year. I was placed in a classroom in the downtown center. My instructor was Ms. Rachel. She worked with me. She didn't allow me to give up. She pushed me and I pushed myself. Finally, on December 6, 2013, I took the GED test and passed! I will be attending the graduation ceremony on Friday, September 5, 2014 at Macy's on the 11th floor in the auditorium.

In conclusion I want to say that through all of this, I was homeless, but determined to reach my goal. I thank God for the staff at GPLC and the free literacy services they offer. They make it possible for others to reach their goals, just like me. Thank you GPLC!

In 2013 I became a student at GPLC. I entered the GED preparation program so that I could soon take the GED tests. I struggled in math and writing mostly. The journey was long and hard. But I was able to overcome because of the teacher's that were able to make me understand what I was learning. Their ability to break the lessons down were so helpful too me. I want to especially thank Kate who was one of the volunteers at GPLC that assisted in the class with learning word problems. She was amazing! She helped me learn how to figure out the problems. Luke was my main instructor. He played a big part also. I additionally worked with a gentleman from Urban League where I first started working on my GED. He encouraged me to attend GPLC. What a life changing experience! Thank you Greater Pittsburgh Literacy Council for giving me another chance to reach my goal. Thanks to GPLC, I am now attending CCAC majoring in Software Development and Socialwork.

Before coming to GPLC I had no ability to speak English at all. Now that I can communicate much better with people, I feel more confident. Now that I'm attending the ged class so that I can take the ged tests and attend CCAC for the nursing program. Thank you GPLC for helping me to turn my dreams into reality.

Hi! I am a 43 year old student, that is very thankful for the Greater Pittsburgh Literacy Program. If it wasn't for them I wouldn't be able to get my diploma. They are wonderful, very encouraging happy people who enjoys helping others. There are hundreds of thousands of people out there that need diplomas and need adult education brush up, and this is the place that can help. I thank the lord for my teacher because he is calm,helpful, and he encourages you. Thank you GPLC and God Bless you.

I'm a student of GPLC and I'm so glad that they gave me the chance to complete my school.

I' m a student of G P L C. I am so thankful for all the teacher's at Greater Pittsburgh Literacy Council for the help . They have helped me in many ways.

GPLC is a place where I learned English as a second language. The Teacher's are very good and kind. The student's are helpful too. At GPLC I studied there for my citizenship. I became a citizen on March 21, 2014! I plan to attend GED classes at GPLC soon, so that I can take the GED tests. My goal is to get my GED diploma. I would like to participate in GPLC's GED graduation one day.

Thank you GPLC for everything!

This program really helped me with my work. The actually take the time to help heir students understand the work before they have to take to the test. My goal was to finish the program with in seven months and I did. I really got a better understand on the work. I was't rushed either when I didn't understand something I told my teacher and she took the time to help me. I'm really thankful that I got a chance to come to this program. Thank for allowing people to come, grow and be able to continue going to school.

Greater Pittsburgh Literacy Council helped me to change my lilfe by allowing me to participate in their free literacy program. I walked through the doors of GPLC in 2012 for GED prep classes. I attended the classes 4 times a week. The learning atmosphere was exceptional. The teachers are amazing in teaching each lesson. All because of GPLC, I was able to accomplish my GED goal. I recommend their agency to those that are interested in pursuing their education. Greater Pittsburgh Literacy Council you are doing great things!

I want to thank GPLC for giving me a chance to achieve my GED goal. My instructor is very uinderstanding, helpful, and caring. Thank you GPLC for a great opportunity too pursue my education again.

I would like to thank the Greater Pittsburgh Literacy Council for their help in helping me accomplish my GED goal! What an inspiring place to go and learn the many things to help you reach your goal. The staff are caring, kind, very helpful and always taking time to make sure I understand what is being taught. They never let me move on without having a good understanding of what I'm learning. I applaud you GPLC!

Thank you all!

I love volunteering with GPLC! The Greater Pittsburgh Literacy Council has given me a wonderful opportunity to give back to my community and also pushed me to grow as an individual. GPLC prepares their volunteer tutors very well, providing training courses and mentoring. The staff is incredibly helpful too; whenever I have questions or concerns, my coordinator is always there to help. I would highly recommend this organization to anyone interested in tutoring.

I registered for the Adult Basic Education (Literacy) workshop in October 2009, which I thought was tremendous, and went on to focus on GED preparation. I tutored a GED student for more than two and a half years until my student passed this August. When my student passed, it was very difficult to stop smiling for several days! Very few things are comparable to helping someone finally accomplish a lifetime education goal. I plan to continue tutoring GED with GPLC in the future, because we are quite literally opening up lives.

To do adult tutoring has been a goal of mine for many years. My motivations are twofold -- remembering the pain of being a square peg in a round hole in elementary school, and having gained confidence and momentum, realizing much has come because I have had access to more than my share of resources.

My experience with GPLC has been very rewarding. After a few evenings of tutor training, my regional coordinator matched me with my first student. Each student comes to the tutor ready to succeed. First of all, if they went to GPLC to ask for help, you know they are ready to learn. I am now on my 3rd student, and have found this to be true every time. GPLC has also worked to prepare the student. Each student is tested to determine her/his exact needs, and an education specialist provides the tutor with a description of those needs and the materials to use in working with them.

In each case the materials have been very helpful. Yet, it has also been fun, as I get to know the student, to find other materials that really spark the student's interest and fuel the journey.

I was a bit worried about where we would meet. But it has not been a problem. Tutors are asked to meet their student in a public facility which is convenient for both student and tutor. So, in each case, my GPLC coordinator has found a library and cleared the way for us.

It is so wonderful to get to know these fantastic people who come to GPLC to learn and better themselves, and ready to work hard. It's really fun for both student and tutor. You can see each student open, over time, like a flower, and I find my spirit lifted being a part of the journey.

As a volunteer, I want my time to be used wisely and not wasted. I want to know that I have had an effect on the organization and I also want the experience to be interesting for me. As a volunteer ESL tutor for three years with the Greater Pittsburgh Literacy Council, I have found all of this and more.

I know that I have made a big difference in my students' lives as they adjust to their new country and culture. I have helped them get their drivers' licenses, pass the GED test, get better jobs, and prepare for the citizenship test.

My students have taught me as well. They have taught me about their countries and cultures and they have helped me understand the world a little better. Their paths to America have humbled me and made me even more appreciative of my own life.

Volunteering with the Greater Pittsburgh Literacy Council has been a very rewarding experience.

GPLC provides a valuable service to people who wish to develop their English language skills, and I would recommend the organization to anyone interested in this kind of volunteer work.

My own experience has been in the area of English as a Second Language (ESL). As a GPLC volunteer since 2008, I’ve worked for varying lengths of time with eleven advanced ESL students, eight from Eastern Asia and three from Eastern Europe, sometimes one-on-one and sometimes in small groups. My students have been, without exception, interesting, personable, conscientious, and appreciative. Meeting with them has been intellectually stimulating as well as a lot of fun for me.

In return for a minimal amount of monthly reporting, GPLC provides lots of support—training, resources, area coordinators, student information and needs assessments, a “mentor” service involving more experienced tutors, and a wide variety of networking and ongoing development activities, both locally and on a wider scale. On a day-to-day basis, the tutor has a lot of freedom to structure lessons as appropriate, based on the needs, proficiency level and learning style of the students. My lesson preparation time has varied in relation to the relative formality of the approach best suited to my students’ goals.

ESL tutoring involves some time and work, but I’ve found that any investments I’ve made have been amply rewarded in many ways. If you’re attracted to the idea of helping people from other countries learn more about our language and culture, and if you’d like to broaden your own horizons by getting involved with some very interesting people from other parts of the world, then GPLC may be the ideal volunteering opportunity for you.

Working for GPLC as a volunteer ESL tutor has been a great experience for me. Over the past seven years I’ve tutored many different students. They have all been enthusiastic learners who have inspired me in countless ways. While leading busy lives, the students are still able to find time to study English and they are always eager and willing to work hard. Often our meetings are the only occasion the students have for practicing their English in a non threatening setting and they are grateful and appreciative for this opportunity. I cherish the connections and relationships that I have made through tutoring. The professional staff of GPLC is very helpful about assisting tutors with resource material and other support. My local coordinator is wonderful and offers encouragement when needed. Attending monthly “Tutor Talks” is informative and a good way to meet other tutors and brainstorm new ideas. If you are looking for a meaningful way to make a contribution to your community, please consider contacting GPLC. You do not have to be an education expert but merely have the desire to make someone’s life a little easier. Volunteering with GPLC is enjoyable, extremely rewarding and just a whole lot of fun!

I've been a tutor with GPLC for 3 years. I wanted to give back and have a true life-changing impact for someone. The organization has helped me achieve that and more. The folks at GPLC are an amazing group of highly-committed individuals who are truly invested in the improving education in region.

After 30 years as an English teacher, I chose to volunteer with GPLC in retirement. Four years ago. I took their ESL training. It has been wonderfully fulfilling work. Several students have commented that, in addition to gaining language skills, they are pleased to actually know an American. Many have few real relationships with Americans because their English isn't really good enough to engage in conversations beyond the superficial. Students in this program have told me they feel encouraged by their tutors and thus find the courage to engage more fully in American life. GPLC support is excellent and volunteering with them is entirely worthwhile!

I have been a volunteer ESL tutor for the GPLC for six years. I volunteered because I want to give back and help immigrants learn English which they really need living here. The GPLC takes in and tests potential students and prepares a professional analysis of their English needs and goals with recommendations for class plans and suggestions that might work well with the students. They also provide texts to use and are available for suggestions to solve problems, etc. the staff that I have dealt with is very professional and dedicated to help the students. They are amiable, intelligent and go out of their way to help us tutors do the best that we can for our students. Tom Harter

I've been an ESL tutor with GPLC for 3 years now and it's the most rewarding and important thing I do. Besides the wonderful feeling I get from helping people who want to learn English, I also enjoy the fact that I'm helping to create a good impression of America and Americans. I currently tutor 8 students, and our twice-weekly classes are something I look forward to. No matter what kind of a mood I'm in when I leave for class, I'm always in a great mood when I get there.
GPLC is a great organization, the best I've ever volunteered with. The training and support they provide makes it easy to make a difference in someone's life. Get involved--it won't take long for you to wonder why you waited so long!

I have volunteered with GPLC for 4 years. Initially I worked with a young woman who was trying to pass her GED. Next I was assigned to work with a man who has learning disabilities as well as suffering from a brain injury due to a car accident. We have been together for 3 years, and it has been a most rewarding albeit frustrating experience. He is difficult and demanding, but we have developed a very strong relationship. GLPC and their district supervisors have been most supportive and have provided us with ample materials. If you are someone who enjoys a hands-on experience, I highly recommend volunteering with GPLC. Cary Reed

Volunteering as an ESL tutor is the most rewarding volunteer work I've ever loved. I plan to continue to volunteer with GPLC because they give me the freedom to do what I love in a way that is comfortable for me and the population we serve. THe student and I0 choose the time and place most convenient for us to meet. I create the lessons and the connection with the student. As a volunteer I have the freedom to work with my tutee in what ever capacity he or she needs, whether it be practicing making phone calls or how to interview for a job. The Greater Pittsburgh Literacy Council has offers so much support to tutors. There are opportunities for development, exchange of cultural ideas, and interchange of teaching methods. The best part about working with this organization is that the volunteers, over the course of several months, are able to see sustainable change in their students and know how they have contributed to the mission.

I must say, it brings me great joy to volunteer as a telephone conversation partner for Greater Pittsburgh Literacy Council. Gplc is a wonderful non-profit organization that goes the extra mile to strengthen literacy skills for it's students. Also, the organization gives great tools for it's staff and volunteers. It is my goal to continue to have a "can-do" attitude and to go the extra mile for the students of Gplc. Tamyka Ramsey

I've volunteered for GPLC for about six years, steadily for the past 3 1/2, most recently tutoring a local man who started out reading at a first-grade level. He has slowly progressed, and aside from providing space for us to meet GPLC has been consistently helpful and responsive to requests for materials and other assistance, and proactive in offering additional help and promoting staff development.

GPLC has linked me with many great mentees to work with. I have helped students learn English to excel at their day jobs and future goals. I totally support GPLC in growing to be an even stronger organization, with my support.

I have been a tutor for GPLC for 2 years, teaching English as a second language to small groups of foreign professionals. This volunteer job is extremely rewarding because of the language skills I can teach my students, the cultural experiences we share as a group, the field trips we take, and the friendships that develop. The GPLC administration is supportive by giving the materials I ask for and by facilitating useful workshops both for tutors and for students.

I feel like the volunteer work I do for the Greater Pittsburgh Literacy Council is valued and supported. The tutor training provides a thorough and sound foundation which is flexible enough for me to create my own learning tools for my students' specific needs. A variety of learning activities are provided for GPLC students and tutors outside of class, and the achievement of goals is celebrated appropriately. I enjoy tutoring and helping my students realize their life objectives.

When I retired from many years of public school teaching in 2004, I started to volunteer in the ESL program for the GPLC. It has been a very rewarding experience because I was able to use the training provided to help 1 Palestinian and 5 Chinese immigrants learn to make their way in their new life. Two students have become citizens, and three more are preparing to do that. Several have obtained better jobs. I, myself, have found that I learn as much from them as they learn from me. Of course, all of us find the truths about human nature.

I am a Literacy*AmeriCorps member serving at the Downtown Center teaching a low beginner ESL class. Since starting to teach classes to immigrant and refugees in September, the difference I have seen in my students is amazing. More so than improved test scores and better performances in class (which I have definitely seen), I am impressed by their ever-expanding capacity to communicate with me person-to-person, tell me stories and jokes, and interact with me and other foreign students as friends.

GPLC has been supportive of me and my fellow AmeriCorps members as teachers-- from training us to providing us with materials to giving us guidance from experienced professionals when we need advice on learning differences or creating good lesson plans. This organization is full of wonderful people who really care about helping students and clients.

I am a Compass AmeriCorps member through GPLC. At my service site we refer many of our refugee clients to GPLC for family literacy, general ESL, and Vocational ESL classes. Our clients enjoy going to ESL classes at GPLC and learn very fast, especially in the Vocation English class.

I worked with GPLC as an AmeriCorps volunteer at Beginning with Books. I saw so many children get a good start, and I learned so much. Now, as a children's librarian, I put that experience to good use. GPLC is the type of program that helps everybody!

I assisted in teaching recent immigrants understand our culture and to feel accepted and to help teach them our English language. I was overwhelmed with the amount of eagerness and the way they attended classes and was always prepared. Most of the immigrants went through a lot to get to this country and to speak even a little of our language and I was very humbled. I also was very impressed that some of them could speak many languages and already had jobs. I was very proud to help further attain their goals as a newly arrived immigrant.

In August 2009 until February 2010 I lived in Pittsburgh with my nephew that work there. This time I got a studant in ELS for 6 months and in GPLC for the last week I stay in Pittsburgh. I would like to stay for more time but I need to came back to my country because the imagration gave me only 6 months to stay in USA. Now I'm going to Pittsburgh in March 28, 2011. I'll visit my nephew and I'll study English again but I would like to get a volunteer work too because I think, How long time I spend together with American people more easy I learn and speak English.
In my country(Brazil) I'm an economist. I worked in traffic department but now I'm retired. I have a free time and I get a freedom.

Being a volunteer at GPLC has been one of the best experiences of my adult life because the opportunities co-evolve so that both students and volunteers get more out of the programs over the years. Whether I have time to give two hours twice a week to 1-4 students or only have time to spend 1/2 hour once a week on the phone with another, GPLC provides ongoing training, support and encouragement. Staff is energetic and creative and always takes time to improve an individual's learning experience.

Being on Greater Pittsburgh Literacy Council’s board has been one of the best experiences of my life. There seems to be no end to the stream of new ideas that come from board members and no limits to their willingness to invest their time and money in GPLC’s work. They are an inspiration to me.

I wanted to learn from the best. When I was considering what board I might join, I went to experts in community affairs who knew all the major nonprofits in the Pittsburgh region. I told them that, above all, I wanted to be on a board with exemplary members working for a well-managed nonprofit. They agreed that GPLC was at the top of the list with a smart board and top-performing staff.

Since 2006, I’ve been continually learning about the organization – learning what makes it work so well and adapt to change, especially in the form of challenging economic environments. Some clues were spelled out for me recently in GPLC Executive Director Don Block’s article, “Facing Challenges in Nonprofit Organizations” in the fall 2010 issue of Squirrel Hill Magazine.

One of the things Don mentions as key to the success of a nonprofit is a board that is involved and well-informed. GPLC’s board and staff members have frequent opportunities for discussion and teamwork toward common goals during board meetings, committee meetings, event planning, events and other experiences. The staff members are very available to help educate us about what they do and how we can help them. One of our annual events, the Annual GPLC Trivia Bowl, is a totally board-run event so we can take some fundraising pressure off our staff and free them up to focus on their work. But we rely on them for occasional guidance and value their opinions.

Of course, there are five other keys to success in managing a nonprofit discussed in Don’s article, and they concern the staff and students and other stakeholders. But as a board member, I’ve focused on the board’s role here. However, it appears to me that the staff, students and volunteers are unusually committed. A secretary sometimes calls students at home to make sure they are on their way to class whenever she feels they need encouragement. Volunteer tutors decide to cook Thanksgiving dinner for their English-as-a-second-language students. This doesn’t even scratch the surface. Read the other reviews of GPLC on this Web site.

It’s not surprising that GPLC’s adult education programs give people tools they can use to improve continually their quality of life for the rest of their lives. Those involved in GPLC don’t just put a bandage on a problem. They’ve got better ideas.

I've been Volunteering at GPLC for almost three years. I've been teaching an adult how to read. By now we've become friends. He's younger than I am, so I have a hook into what the younger people are thinking about. Since I have always done well in school, and like to read, this volunteer opportunity works well for me and is very convenient. I also spent some time teaching English to Pittsburgh residents who want to learn. They sent me out with another language instructor so I wasn't on my own. That experience was rewarding as well.

I got very nice training here, and my English had been great proved. I learned more knowlege from teahcers and classmate, they left me a unforgetted time.

I have been volunteering for the Greater Pittsburgh Literacy Council for thirteen years. Through the years I have tutored many students at all levels of English. I get to talk with a diverse group of people from around the world. I have learned much about other people’s cultures and customs as they have learned about mine. One Chinese student I tutored several years ago never called me by my name which I thought was strange – she always called me “teacher”. I never gave it much thought until one day she explained that a teacher was respected as much as or even more than one’s parents. People often ask me “you don’t get paid for tutoring?” I respond by telling this story and I say that this is my payment. Money can’t compensate for the great feeling I get when I help people achieve their goals. I owe this experience to the Literacy Council.

Early on Saturday morning, Sept. 25, attendees of the Carson Academic and Creative Writing Conference at Chatham University were asked to silently read this… jfashl ekspretions and hed moovmints can yu tel how sumwun feals abowt yu bu reding boddi langwij? authoryteas klame yu can, frum thu luuk uv skorne, however phleting, too thu suttle nods and brite ize that sae sumwun iz reesepyv too yor thauts… As Becky Carpenter, Director of Special Projects at the Greater Pittsburgh Literacy Council, watched each participant she noticed that students and professors alike read with confusion and frustration. I repressed my English major reflexes of wanting to snatch a pen and revise the text. We were informed that the text is written by someone just below the official level “low literate.” She then pressed all of us to think about what restrictions someone would face if they were not literate. Responses from not being able to most likely not being able to find a well-paying job to not knowing what type of service you receive at the doctor’s office to not being able to take care of finances were daunting. During a day of intellectual vigor, it was humble yet refreshing to recall our opportunities as members of Sigma Tau Delta. This was an eye-opening moment for all of us, as everyone was nervous for their own panels that included reading Toni Morrison from an eco-critical lens to discussing realist theories of international politics. In that instance, we were all reminded of our privilege to have the ability to revise. The first session was an amazing opportunity for participants from Chatham University’s undergraduate and graduate program, University of Pittsburgh at Greensburg, University of Pittsburgh Main, Duquesne University, Ohio Wesleyan University and Westminster College to network with the Greater Pittsburgh Literacy Council and learn more about making a direct influence in the community by corresponding with a student through email to teaching a mini- class. Becky Carpenter inspired all participants to take a greater stake in the community by contributing to the growth of literacy.

The Greater Pittsburgh Literacy Council is my favorite non-profit in Allegheny county. The organization's professional and effective staff provide great services to a wide variety of adults. I tutored a student on her GED for 6 months. In the brief transition between my departure and her new tutor's assignment, she tried out another organization's program. The student was calling me about returning within less than a week. The GPLC was really the best match for her. She's raised her test scores and getting ready to sign up for her test.

I have been volunteering as an Email Partner for the GPLC for the past six months. I investigated other volunteer opportunities in Pittsburgh and was impressed with the GPLC's program offerings for both students and volunteers. The flexibility of the email program allows me to volunteer while working full time. My email partner is from Japan and I really enjoy corresponding with her. My coordinator is always prompt to answer any questions I have. It has been a very rewarding experience.

GPLC (The Greater Pittsburgh Literacy Council) has been very helpful in hooking me up with students. I have enjoyed my work very much. Many Ly, the GPLC program services manager, has always responded promptly to my queries and other Emails.

After being trained by GPLC I worked first with a young woman who wanted to pass the math section of her GED. After a few months, she was successful. Since then I have been working with a man in his thirties who has learning disabilities as well as brain damage from a car accident ten years ago. Although it is slow going, we are making some progress and he is determined to improve. I can tell that he feels better about himself and his opportunities. GPLC has been very supportive and has always responded to any questions or concerns I have about working with my student. I think it is an excellent organization.

Working with people as a tutor for the Greater Pittsburgh Literacy Council has been a great experience for me. I began a year ago with an email partner from Korea. She felt the need to connect with people here, not only by speaking english, but by writing and reading it as well. It is nice to see non-profits that are not stagnant in their methods. Helping humans stay connected in our high tech world is not always easy. That is why the GPLC is such a valuable asset to people with this need who come knocking at Pittsburgh's door. I am proud to be a part of the Greater Pittsburgh Literacy Council.

This is a terrific organisation, which offers free tutoring to many non-English speaking people. I first served as a tutor to a Chinese-American woman, who progressed so quickly that she passed her drivers test on the first try. At present, I.m working with a Egyptian-American woman over the internet. She needs to pass a writing test in English for her ph.d. The gplc offers so much to so many, fulfilling a real need in the Pittsburgh area. All typing errors = Ipad.s fault

As a student in GPLC, I benifit a lot from it. I improve my English, including listening, speaking and writing. My tutor is very kind and patient.

I have been working with the Greater Pittsburgh Literacy Council as an online tutor for over one year now. I work as a substitute teacher, and the Greater Pittsburgh Literacy Council allows me to help people in a way that fits my schedule. I have been matched with people that are looking for someone to help them improve their writting skills. Online volunteering is a very relaxed and enjoyable way to lean about people and help them achieve their goals. There are few places that offer the diverse opportunities to help that the GPLC does.

I have been a volunteer with the GPLC for over two years and it has been an extremely rewarding experience. Because I am a teacher I do not have a lot of flexibility with my time to volunteer, and living in the Western suburbs of Pittsburgh it is difficult for me to get through rush hour traffic to volunteer at their headquarters. Therefore, the telephone conversation partner program is perfect since we set the times with our student. I have been partnered with two students and have had such a rewarding experience with them both!!!

I was a tutor with GPLC for a year and had a very great experience. The staff is attentive and accommodating. Because I had no former training or experience in education, I felt unsure at first. When I mentioned this to coordinators, they set up extra opportunities for me to observe other teachers and tutors. I felt very comfortable asking questions and for advice. All of the staff members are enthusiastic and dedicated to the individuals it serves and eager for the volunteers to have a good experience.

Before I retired, I looked for an activity that woul "give me a reson to get out of bed every morning". Went to a Volunteer Fair and the GPLC representative had the most interesting sales talk. I am glad that I signed up and my first student, a Telephone Conversation Partner, became a friend and we are still in touch two years after he returned to Korea. I also have met some very interesting people for counties like Uzbekistan

The staff are very understanding. I was glad to find this flexible volunteer opportunity that has allowed me to connect with recent immigrants. I enjoyed editing essays for a recent immigrant who was preparing to take the GRE. I spend so much time online and on the phone anyway that I may as well do something productive!

I began to volunteer for GPLC's Telephone Conversation Partners program a year and a half ago. I talked with a recent immigrant on the phone once a week where we practiced her English skills through the use of scripts of specific experiences (i.e. making a dentist appointment) and also free conversation. It was really great getting to know someone from a different culture and helping them better understand American culture. I grew very close to my "student" and we still talk every week. This past summer, I also had the opportunity to work with the Program Services Manager to develop another booklet of scripts and topics to further develop immigrants' English speaking skills and understanding of American culture. I was pleasantly surprised that my opinions were valued to the point where I was asked to take a large role in developing the booklet. I really felt that my contribution to the organization was valued and made a difference. I look forward to my continued involvement with GPLC!

First of all, the GPLC training for Adult Basic Education was great. I was given a good understanding of the components of reading and lots of tools to use while tutoring. Also, I've received ongoing support from my local coordinator. When I asked for some history books at my student's reading level, she had some for me within a week. Best of all, my student says he is reading better. He came to one session and told me that he was able to read some new words that he saw every day but hadn't known what they were. I don't feel I could be doing anything more useful. There is a lot of satisfaction in this volunteer effort.

I discovered GPLC shortly after I retired from 37 years as a Spanish teacher in June of 2005. I saw an ad in a local newspaper for volunteer training and, by answering the ad, I opened a whole new opportunity in my life. I have taught six different students from a variety of countries: Belgium, Lebanon, China, South Korea, Colombia. Through my work with these students, I have become even more culturally sensitive than I was in the past. Each student has provided a means of growth on my part and lasting friendships have been formed. I have found my Area Co-ordinator to be very helpful and willing to provide opportunities for tutors to get together and to share ideas and thoughts on what is happening. GPLC provides such wonderful services that enrich the lives of the students as well as the tutors. I cannot say enough to support this marvelous organization.

As an ESL (English as a Second Language) tutor, I can attest to the fact that this is a very rewarding way to spend your time. Students are appreciative, and learning about other cultures from the students is an education for the tutor. Personally, my most cherished activity was helping two students become US citizens.

I have volunteered with the Greater Pittsburgh Literacy Council, including as a member of Americore, for 9 years. The organization is well run and the staff and volunteers are enthusiastic about helping the people they serve. I have always had help with the different students I have taught and have had good information and materials to help me with the different levels of students.

I have had 5 "students" since joining the organization. Each student has a different problem that they want to improve. No matter what the probem, I have always been able to contact somebody at GPLC for assistance, guidance and direction. I'm glad to say that I have never felt alone with the student.

I am a 59 year old retired RN who had no previous training in tutoring. The skilled and friendly staff at GPLC made tutoring possible and enjoyable for me through their excellent hands on teaching program and their constant, steady support. My students and I have a staff person who responds whenever we have a question. We are quite fond of her. Over the almost 2 years that I have been working with my 2 students my life has been enriched greatly and we have become good friends.I recommend this organization highly for the integrity of it's staff and goals.

I have been an English-as-a-Second-Language (ESL) tutor for a decade. I've always had students whom I liked and enjoyed teaching. Flexibility in when and where to teach is a significant plus in volunteering to work with the Greater Pittsburgh Literacy Council.

I have really enjoyed working with both the literacy council and the people they have matched me with. The training and support that they give has made my job easy and very satisfying. I have tutored people in ESL and in math literacy. Helping others to achieve their goals of citizenship, a driver's license, or attending college is both fun and rewarding. When my student asked me to have my picture taken with her outside the building where she got her citizenship, I realized that what had been a really fun experience for me, had been life changing for her. The people have been great, and I really enjoy my volunteer time.

Being a GPLC volunteer tutor has been a big learning experience for me as much as for the students! I have been privileged to have very mature adult students who have shared my love of reading literature and various other texts through this past year. Our discussions have gone beyond the content and played a part in giving us new insight into our everyday life.

About once a week, I tutor a fellow mom in reading & math. She and I have been working together for almost two years, and, while I provide the tools, she inspires and humbles me with her dedication and spirit. My GPLC coordinator does the same: Via email, she provides support, ideas, deep appreciation for what I do, encouragement, and immediate responses whenever questions come up. This is an amazing organization that truly cares about opening lives through literacy.

I tutor ESL English with the GPLC. I get to meet wonderful people from all around the world. Being new to the area this volunteering has helped me feel at home. You are helping a real person and are doing something which is really appreciated. I have done this type of work before in another state, but here the GPLC gives training and support, which means you can be more effective in what you do. The materials provided are excellent and are chosen for each individuals needs. The tutor meetings help you to feel part of a team and we share tips to make lessons more interesting.

I've always wanted to volunteer in the area of literacy. After retirement and relocating to Pittsburgh I decided to give GPLC (Great Pittsburgh Literacy Council)a try. GPLC has met every expectation and then some. I became a tutor 4 years ago and have been blessed with so many interesting, fun, enthusiastic students. I thought I would be the "teacher" but have learned that there is so much to learn from others. I get all the support and education I need or want from GPLC and they are always there with suggestions and assistance when I need or want it. My decision to volunteer with GPLC was a good one and I certainly hope our relationship will continue for many, many years.

I volunteer with GPLC 3 times a week to tutor a an adult student in basic reading, writing and phonics, and also served in the past as a Literacy*AmeriCorps tutor, teaching ESL/ABE/GED. I'm able to plan my own curriculum and connect with my student on a personal level. Also, GPLC staff are really supportive-- so if you're new to adult education, they'll guide you through the process. There are lots of different volunteering options, depending on your interests. Overall, highly recommended!