I was recently providing a training for ESL tutors for the Literacy Center of Milford, CT. The mission of the Literacy Center of Milford is to provide services at no cost to any individual who wishes to learn the English language or enhance their reading, writing, speaking and math skills necessary to lead productive lives in our community. I’ve been also teaching basic computer skills at the center. The experiences are great and I get to meet a lot of beautiful people with amazing stories.

During our ESL tutor training I focused on the fact that teaching English as a second language is to turn someone bilingual. Being bilingual is an excellent job qualification in cosmopolitan areas. It is also a great tool in many other ways. Consider the fact that many tutors are not bilingual but by offering their time, efforts, and services they are helping someone to become bilingual. That is only the beginning. A person who learns English as a second language can get a GED, a driver’s license, a job, and the opportunity to help their people.

When we help others and provide for them tools and resources they didn’t have before we are empowering others. It is that simple. Think of knowledge as power. Providing knowledge is providing power. Had you consider giving back to your community? Believe me, it is one of the most rewarding experiences you would ever have.