Frequently Asked Questions
What is the minimum time commitment to volunteer?
We ask that all volunteers commit to staying in the program for at least 1 year.
How old do you have to be to volunteer with IHELP?
Tutors and adult students must be at least 18 years of age to be enrolled in the program.
Are all of your students citizens or studying for citizenship?
No. We do not ask about a student’s status other than if citizenship is a goal for them. If they are eligible to take their U.S. citizenship exam, we have a course of study that students can pursue with us when the time is right.
How long does it take for a student to graduate the program?
Adult students can stay in the program for up to 3 years or upon completing the final book in our Curriculum. Youth students complete the program once they have reached English language proficiency for their grade level.
Can I teach multiple students?
This is not something we encourage, but we are open to it if the teacher can meet with the students during separate times (unless they are members of the same household).
What are your sources of funding?
We receive our funding from grants, individual donors, and fundraising events. We are not government (state or federally) funded.
What qualifies someone to be a student with IHELP?
IHELP’s Adult Program is for any adult immigrant or refugee community member who cannot attend regular English classes in the community. This could be due to lack of childcare, lack of transportation, job schedule, etc. The Youth Program is for English learners in grades Pre-K through 5th
Do you serve students in Illinois?
At this time we are only able to serve students on the Missouri side of the river, but welcome teachers from Illinois if they live within a reasonable distance to a St. Louis-area student.
How do students sign up for the waitlist?
Do volunteers need to know another language?
No, volunteers do not need to know a language other than English to volunteer with us. They just need to be open minded and willing to listen well to our students. We also have many volunteers for whom English is not their first language.
Do I need to have a car to volunteer?
No you do not. However, we recommend that volunteers without vehicles be open to meeting virtually.
Where are your students from?
Our students represent over 48 different areas of origin.
I can’t make the commitment for your program. How can I help?
We often need volunteers to assist with events like our annual trivia night. We also have a Young Friends board for ages 21-35 as well as opportunities to assist with administrative tasks and fundraising. For more information email volunteer@ihelpstl.org