Reach out and volunteer with Reach 1.

Reach 1 is a program that gives Ohio State employees, family members and community residents the opportunity to improve their basic skills in reading, writing and math, as well as prepare for the General Education Development test.

This program is offered for free to those who apply through funding from the Office of Human Resources and the Ohio Department of Education.

Students of the program attend classes twice a week, Monday through Thursday, for two hours and fifteen minutes. Classes are held during their workday. Students need approval from their supervisor to attend.

“Students get to improve their literacy and numeral skills, allowing those who want to progress the ability to do so,” said Leslie Farr, instructor and coordinator for Reach 1.

The program is looking for more OSU students and faculty to help out.

Tutors must commit to one class period per week for the entire quarter. Tutors will work with the instructor in class to help the students.

Tutors are required to be committed to work with adult students, to come to class reliably and punctually and to be responsive to the students.

“It feels good to help and to give back to the community while making OSU a better place,” said Clara Lau, a freshman in English.

Lau, who has tutored for five years, said that she believed the relationships created with the students are more beneficial to both parties than in a traditional class.

“The students are more comfortable asking us (tutors) questions and asking for help than having to ask in front of a traditional class,” Lau said.

Tutors and students are rewarded through their accomplishments and co-worker relationships.

“I am closer to getting my GED and closer to my goal,” said Marvin Wright, a university employee at Taylor Tower.

Wright has been involved with the program for two years.

“This is helping me with my future thoughts of going to college,” said Debbie Merritt, a university employee in Campbell Hall.

Merritt said the Reach 1 program is helping her tune her skills to create possibilities for a new career.

The state funded program, has been helping students achieve their goals since 1987. The program serves any adults who function at less than a 12th grade level. To become a student or tutor, interested students, employees and faculty should contact Farr at 292-1238.