University Retirees Volunteer Center

Partners in English Conversation Circles

Seeks Conversation Facilitators 

 “English Conversation Circles” is a program for adults for whom English is not their first language. Groups gather weekly to practice their English skills in a casual, non-academic setting, with the assistance of a volunteer facilitator leading the attendees in discussing such general topics as American events and culture. Co-sponsored by the University Retirees Volunteer Center and Partners in English (PIE), the Conversation Circles is a free program open to all with no pre-registration required.

Date and shift information:  Thursday afternoons, 4:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. Facilitators are rotated regularly, and a once monthly commitment is requested.

Location: St Anthony Park Library, 2245 Como Ave (Como Ave. & Carter Ave), St Paul, MN 55108 (adjacent to the St. Paul U of M campus.)

Description of volunteer duties: Maintain an active, enthusiastic and inclusionary conversation amongst yourself and the students. The student group size is small and varies from week to week. Facilitators submit a brief report after the meeting to the PIE coordinator with names and contact information of each session’s attendees. 

Volunteer eligibility and training requirements: Strong English language listening and speaking ability. Familiarity with teaching ESL and MN Literacy Council standards is helpful. The volunteer coordinator will schedule you with another facilitator for orientation on your first Thursday.

What to wear:  Business casual attire

Parking: Free parking available in library lot.

Interested volunteers please contact:  

P.I.E. Coordinator: John Anderson at 612 207 3895 or ander049@umn.edu