Students Thank the Learning Centre
Graduates of TOLC offer testimonials during the Learning Centre´s 15th anniversary gala celebration. Left to right: Mariela Bautista, Omar Rito, Estefanía Martínez, Geraldo Reyes
CANFRO makes it possible for Canadians to receive charitable tax receipts for any donation to The Tutor Project. Donations may be made in cash while in Oaxaca or through this site.
The Tutor Project
in conjunction with CANFRO’s partner, The Oaxaca Learning Centre
Through the Tutor Project, CANFRO works with the Oaxaca Learning Centre (TOLC) to help young Oaxacans achieve their educational goals. TOLC reaches young people from underserved urban areas and indigenous rural villages to provide the academic tutoring and social service support they need to complete high school, and frequently, to access higher education and professional careers. CANFRO supports this work by providing funds for those who reach university to tutor high school students.
For eager but disadvantaged learners, this support is a critical bridge to success. For example, Mariela Bautista, of Tlalixtac de Cabrera, has found that a year and a half of English classes at TOLC has already improved her communication and public speaking skills. It has also sparked an interest in writing. She notes, “I signed up for a creative writing workshop offered by the Learning Centre and the truth is… I LOVE IT!! I’ve also come to see how useful learning another language can be when looking for better job opportunities.”
Estefanía Martínez, first came to the Learning Centre to study English, but found much more. “The Centre quickly became a place where I was able to grow on a personal level and especially gain confidence in myself,” she says. Now she works in the public sector “using all the tools acquired at the Learning Centre.”
Geraldo Reyes, from San Bartolo Coyotepec, spent eight years at TOLC, and was chosen to be part of the ‘Work Study’ group, which meant he received financial support for professional studies and additional training in subjects like gender equity, study strategies, and psychological support. For Geraldo, the support contributed to his 2014 graduation as a language teacher. He reports, “currently I work in a private secondary school. I am in charge of advanced English groups and I also teach Civics and Ethics.”
Through the Tutor Project, CANFRO’S support for University students offsets the costs of their studies, while they contribute to the educational development of younger students. This cycle enables participants to “give back” to the program, and act as role models for young people who come from the same socio-economic background. The tutors show by example that it is possible to take control of your life and achieve your goals.