At Chatham Literacy, we’re lucky to have volunteers who bring not just experience, but warmth, humor and a genuine love for helping others. Karen Mirkovich is one of those special people. As a long-time tutor and mentor to other tutors, Karen’s story is full of energy, connection and a deep belief in what adult learners can achieve.
A Lifelong Educator Finds a New Calling
Karen’s journey to Chatham Literacy started after a long teaching career in Northern Virginia, where she taught everything from music to math. When she moved to Chatham County in 2020, she knew she wanted to continue making a difference. “I knew that I wanted to get involved in teaching adults again,” she remembers. Her determination and desire to teach in-person classes led her to Chatham Literacy, in early 2022.
Supporting Students – and Fellow Tutors
Karen’s approach to tutoring is both flexible and responsive. While she uses the standard curriculum, Karen supplements lessons with real-world scenarios relevant to her students’ lives and jobs – especially important when working with employees at local companies. “There are some things that I do in the lessons each week that apply to work, job skills and scenarios, whether it’s listening, writing about it, reading about it… I supplement it with things that I know or things that they have asked for. I try to match the curriculum to the students’ goals.”
Karen’s contributions extend beyond the classroom. As a “tutor buddy,” she mentors new volunteers, sharing resources and strategies and providing ongoing support. “There are several of us that are tutor buddies and that have the experience. We first meet with new tutors individually and share resources, strategies that we use and some of the challenges that may happen. And then they shadow me… and I keep in contact with them throughout their initial 3 – 6 months.”
Stories of Connection and Growth
Karen’s greatest rewards come from witnessing her students’ camaraderie and progress. She describes how, over time, initial hesitancy gives way to engagement and mutual support. “When you first start being their tutor, students typically are a little hesitant. They’re not quite sure what you’re going to expect and what your personality is like… What I see here is in every class session, the students interact with each other, and they have fun with each other. They tease each other and they respect each other. They all have similar backgrounds, experiences, hopes and dreams, and they help each other.”
Karen also treasures the laughter that comes from the classroom’s daily surprises. “There have been times… when I was saying something, and the way the student interpreted it was something unexpected, and it ended up being a hilarious misunderstanding. You know, it wasn’t a bad misunderstanding; it was just funny, and it was a learning experience for both of us.”
A Lasting Impact
Karen’s dedication, adaptability and warmth exemplify the spirit of Chatham Literacy. Her story reminds us that, with the right support and a caring mentor, every adult learner can find their voice and achieve their goals.
Inspired to help? Become a tutor like Karen with Chatham Literacy! You’ll not only help others learn, you’ll also experience the joy and fulfillment that comes from being part of something truly meaningful. Visit chathamliteracy.org/tutor, call 919-742-0578, or email admin@chathamliteracy.org