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FAQs and Feedback

How can I volunteer my time for the tutoring program?
Click here to learn about the many volunteer opportunities with the program.

When does Tutoring meet?
Tutoring meets October- May over the school year. The 08-09 Tutoring season will end May 21, 2009.
Tutors choose one night per week to volunteer: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday. Tutoring follows the vacation and holiday schedule for Chicago Public Schools. You may download the 2008-2009 Tutoring calendar here.

What is a typical Tutoring night at Tutoring?
Most students arrive at 5:00 p.m. for a hot meal and arts activity at In2itCafé. Tutors arrive by 6:00 p.m. and work with their student until 7:30 p.m. Staff is always available to assist tutors throughout the evening with educational resources and tips.

Who Participates in Tutoring?
  • More than 400 students currently participate
  • Two-thirds are from the West Town, Humboldt Park and Near North neighborhoods, including the Cabrini-Green housing projects
  • Chicago Lights provides round-trip, supervised bus service nightly in these neighborhoods
  • 33 city zip codes are currently represented
  • 482 volunteers serve as tutors and In2it Cafe helpers
  • 60% of tutors are not affiliated with Fourth Presbyterian Church
  • 58.5% of students are in grades one through six;
  • 23% are in grades seven and eight;
  • 18.5%are in grades nine through twelve
  • 95% of students are African-American and 5% are Hispanic
  • 50% of students are female; 50% are male


If you have additional questions about Tutoring, please contact Alex Cornwell, Director of Tutoring and Summer Day at acornwell@fourthchurch.org.


Mark Your Calendar

Every Saturday
Fresh Produce is available for sale at the Urban Farm
10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

September 7
New Tutor Orienation
6:00 p.m.

September 9
Center for Life and Learning Free Open House
10:00 a.m. or 5:00 p.m.

September 9
Lunch and Reception to learn about Volunteering with Caring Cirlces
12:30 p.m.

September 9
T'ai Chi Classes Begin
5:00 p.m.

September 13
New Tutor Orienation
6:00 p.m.

September 16
New Tutor Orienation
6:00 p.m.




"The biggest draw for us to Chicago Lights, both as volunteers and benefactors, has been the sense of being apart of a strong community that inspires others and leads by example.

Chicago Lights has allowed both of us to share the gifts we have been so blessed with while gaining new perspective on the challenges our community faces."
--Craig and Alison Naish