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The Vello Experience

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A student reads with a virtual volunteer through Vello.

March 12, 2019

Written by Patrice Burrell, Vello Volunteer

I always loved working with students and supporting them in the classroom. In the past, I volunteered as a classroom assistant and I had been looking for ways to get involved with children in school once again. I was intrigued when I discovered an opportunity to become an online literacy tutor. It was something new and different for me, and the idea of being able to help a child learn to read really spoke to me.

I wanted to learn more.

The Vello experience couldn’t be easier. Once I submitted the required information to volunteer with Vello, I received via email information on registering and setting up my account through the Vello portal. It is here where I was able to view the school’s calendar, sign up for tutoring sessions and connect with the classroom. All very easy.

I am connected to my one-on-one session through a screen-sharing software which allows me to see what the student’s reading level is, and a multitude of books in an e-library. I’m able to hear and speak with them through a headset.

What I like most about Vello is that I can create my own schedule. I have the ability to work from my home or the office, or anywhere with an internet connection. With each session I am given an opportunity to help shape a child’s life. While the main goal is help them become great readers, I love that I get to encourage them to become better people.        

I love seeing a student’s confidence in themselves grow with each session. Nothing makes me smile more than having a student go from wondering when the session will be over to asking if we could read another book. 

The staff at United Way are beyond supportive and responsive with any questions, concerns, or assistance I need. The Vello technical support team was always readily available during a session if I was having any type of issues with the connection. From the very beginning I was provided with printable training materials, on-line group training, and Q & A training. 

I believe Vello provides a great and unique opportunity to serve and give back to one’s community. To me, it’s all centered on one of the greatest rewards: being able to invest in a child’s life. 

Interested in being a tutor?

Learn about trainings dates and more by clicking here. We'll reach out with next steps to those interested in becoming Vello tutors.

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