Volunteer Fran sitting with Shahram while his mum practices English.
16 January 2025
Bega Valley Shire Library is calling for volunteers to help support a group of women from culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) backgrounds by engaging with their children while they learn English language skills at Tura Marrang Library's Here 2 Help literacy and numeracy hub.
Library Services Coordinator, Yvette Parker said they are looking for volunteers who are confident and capable of engaging young children with craft, stories and games, under the guidance of a facilitator.
"We'd love to hear from volunteers who can engage with preschool children so their mums can focus on their own learning," Ms Parker said.
"The women participating in this program come from a range of countries including Bangladesh, Tajikistan and Sri Lanka.
"They want to improve both their written and spoken English skills so they can more easily adapt to community life here in the Bega Valley."
The Here 2 Help hub at Tura Marrang Library operates on Wednesdays during school terms from 10am to 12pm. With a skilful team of enthusiastic volunteer tutors, participants are helped to improve all aspects of their English skills, prepare for driver's licence tests, enrol their children in school, undertake TAFE courses and practice conversation skills, depending on their needs.
"We have a small number of volunteers active with the children while their mothers are onsite but more volunteers will help keep the program effective," Ms Parker said.
All Bega Valley Shire Library volunteers must have a current NSW Working with Children Check – available on application from Service NSW and is free for volunteers.
