Commentary by Brad Thompson
If you can read, write and do basic arithmetic, Tabernacle Presbyterian Church at 34th Street and Central Avenue in Indianapolis could use your help.
Butch and Janet West of Zionsville answered the call and work with elementary students through the Tab Tutoring Program, founded approximately nine years ago.
Volunteer tutors work with students who come to the church from School 48, The Oaks Academy and other schools. Tutoring sessions last from 3:45 until 5:15 p.m. every Thursday during the school year. The students are in kindergarten through eighth grade, and each student is assigned his or her own tutor. There are about 40 students in the program, but unfortunately the program has to turn some students away for lack of tutors.
There is no training required for adult volunteers. The tutors come from all walks of life. For those who want to try it out before buying, the program needs substitute tutors who will be available to help when regular tutors cannot. This is especially true in January and February when some of the regular tutors head south for the winter. If you’re interested in volunteering, call Tab Church at 317-923-5458.
