Get Involved
Literacy is life changing. It empowers adult learners with the everyday skills they need to read a prescription, get a job, help their children with homework, pursue higher education, and become U.S. citizens.
Low literacy is directly linked to higher healthcare costs. Children of parents with low literacy skills have a significant risk of dropping out of school and lacking essential life skills. Literacy is the key to rising above poverty.
BEACON English Language & Literacy serves over 400 adult language learners each year through English classes, Citizenship classes, and other educational programs. The BEACON program would not be possible without the immense generosity of our volunteers and donors. There are many volunteer opportunities (with varying levels of commitment) at BEACON and we strive to connect you with the role that best fits your skills, interests, and schedule.
Here are some of the ways that you can empower language learners today:
Volunteer to teach or tutor
- You do not have to have a teaching background or know another language to make a difference in the lives of our learners!
Contact our volunteer coordinator or apply today here.
Volunteer your time/talents
- While our greatest need is for volunteer teachers, we have a significant need for volunteer support in the office, social media, fundraising, event planning, and so much more.
Contact our volunteer coordinator today.
Invest in our learners through charitable donations
- Become a monthly donor
- Make a small donation
- Donate in-kind items such as: dry erase markers, certificate paper, chalk, erasers, pens, cardstock paper, photocopy paper, etc.
For more information visit us here.
Partner with us
- Pay for your employees to take classes with us
- Partner with us to provide space for classes or an event
Contact our Executive Director today.
130+ Volunteers
Donate 10,000+ Hours Annually
Our greatest need is for volunteer instructors to teach ESOL classes; however, volunteer support is needed in the office, event planning, and at student registration. Teaching positions do not require a teaching background or knowledge of another language (in fact our classes are taught only in English). Classes are held in the morning from 9:30-11:30 or in the evening from 7:00-9:00 at various locations in Manassas and Manassas Park. We ask volunteer teachers to commit to teaching either two or four hours per week for a minimum of one trimester. Each trimester is 12 weeks. Teachers receive professional level training and ongoing support. Professional development opportunities are available throughout the year.
We ask all volunteers to fill out a volunteer application, complete a background check, attend a training, and observe a class. Email Jen, at Jmorazuniga@osbva.org to learn about the different positions available today!
Testimonials
“I’m Fran LeMarier and I’ve always wanted to do volunteer work. I chose BEACON because I have a firm belief that teaching students English will help to improve the quality of their lives.”
“I’m Amy Meyer. I first got involved with BEACON because I wanted to find a volunteer job that would have a direct and positive impact on the community, so when I found BEACON it seemed like a really good match. “