Ann’s 22 years of volunteer service with English Language Partners Southland represents a remarkable achievement.
Not only has Ann carried out her volunteer tasks with professionalism and dedication but has consistently gone above and beyond the call of duty.
An example of this was when one learner and their family found themselves in difficulty when the home they were renting was suddenly sold. They could not find another home with affordable rent. Ann and her husband also spent a lot of time trying to find something suitable. When that wasn’t successful Ann bought a home to rent to them so they had somewhere secure to live.
Another time when visiting a learner’s home, Ann learned that the reason the curtains were drawn was that in this person’s culture, outsiders should not be able to look into the house. She found an easy solution which made such a difference to the learner. She brought net curtains on her next visit and hung them, and her learner was so delighted that she could enjoy the sun and see outside without her privacy being compromised.
Ann has given fabulous support in the class for former refugees, where she spends her time teaching small groups and individual learners on different topics. All of her experience as a home tutor shows through because she has such a wonderful ability to think on the spot and adapt to whatever is needed. The learners really appreciate Ann’s bright and cheerful manner. She takes such personal interest in each of the learners and they, in turn, have confidence and trust in her.
Alongside the wonderful work Ann does as a home tutor and class volunteer, she is also a great help in other ways. She assists with the running of the centre’s social activities like quiz evenings, Christmas functions, working bees, and bi-monthly tutor forums. And Nalini, the Invercargill ELP centre manager appreciates the help with local funding applications when it’s needed. We all love the positivity and enthusiasm Ann brings to whatever task she finds herself doing.
Ann – you have exceptional qualities and in myriads of ways have helped so many learners over the years. Your continued support, friendship, and guidance for Nalini and Sue and the team at English Language Partners Southland is amazing. Thank you so much.
Warm regards, Nicola Sutton, Chief Executive
Follow in Ann’s footsteps! Volunteer with English Language Partners and help us provide free English lessons to former refugees and migrants. We will train you to work alongside learners, so you can provide them with the language skills and confidence necessary to participate successfully in Kiwi life and culture.
Click here to find out more!
