Would you like to make a difference in the academic life of a child? In cooperation with the county Superintendent of Schools’ Office, the Somerset County Office of Volunteer Services has launched a program to recruit volunteers, of all ages, to tutor underperforming students.

Although volunteers are not required to be teachers, they do need to be knowledgeable in certain school subjects, including reading, mathematics, language arts, science or English as a Second Language.

Individuals who can spare a few hours a month to tutor a child are asked to contact Laurie Beckhorn, Office of Volunteer Services, at (908) 704-6338 or beckhorn@co.somerset.nj.us   A free background check and fingerprinting will be performed before volunteers are accepted as tutors.

Over a dozen students are currently on a waiting list for tutor assistance, with the majority needing help in reading and math. To participate in the program, students must be referred by a teacher or guidance counselor. The tutor will meet with the student at a mutually acceptable location, such as a local library.

For more information, contact Laurie Beckhorn, Somerset County Office of Volunteer Services, at (908) 704-6338.