Cyndi Johnston, coordinator of adult literacy programs at Spoon River College, relies on volunteer tutors to help students in the various programs offered by the College, and normally has many community members stepping up to the plate.

But because of the pandemic, this year is different. Many of Johnston’s volunteers are retired seniors, and she says she understands their concerns and doesn’t blame them for their decision to sit this year out.

“Over the years I have been blessed to have the most amazing people answer my call for volunteers,” Johnston said. “I still have amazing people answering the call, just not enough of them. The pandemic is affecting all the literacy programs throughout the state.”

Johnston is specifically seeking volunteers for the following GED classes: morning and evening classes in Canton and Macomb, and evening classes in Rushville. Volunteers may tutor remotely or face-to-face. “We follow all CDC recommendations in our in-person classes with social distancing, face masks/shields, and hand sanitizer.”

“Volunteers are a vital part of the success of the program and of our students,” Johnston said. “We’ll provide the training, and the hours are flexible.”

For more information about being a volunteer tutor, contact Johnston at (309) 833-6038.