Tutor Stories: Allen
Meet Allen: A tutor who shows up, again and again
What does it mean to truly show up for someone else’s success? For Allen Beckett, it’s meant 1,300 hours—and counting—of patience, presence, and purpose.
Since becoming a tutor with CFLC in 2009, Allen’s gentle nature and quiet persistence have changed the lives of over 26 students. A veteran of the U.S. Air Force, Allen knows the value of hard work and commitment. He’s cross-trained in both Adult Literacy and English as a Second Language and adapts his teaching style to meet each student where they are. Over the years, he’s taught a wide range of classes, including Financial Literacy, Math for the GED and PSB, Learn2Earn Employment Prep, and Computers.
“Volunteering gives me purpose,” Allen says. “It’s almost like therapy.”
For many of Allen’s students, his support has been life-changing. He’s helped students earn their GEDs, become U.S. citizens, and master essential tasks like filling out forms or paying their bills. Most recently, he had the pleasure of helping one of his students, Sherrill, get into community college, where she proudly completed a nursing program.
“Allen is one of the kindest, most caring, and genuine tutors I’ve ever worked with, and he is always willing to go above and beyond for his students, whether that is exploring multiple ways to do a math problem, or going with a student to provide moral support for a GED test.” —CFLC Staff Member
One of his proudest memories came when Allen’s first immigration student, Maria, became a U.S. citizen. She sent him a photo of herself proudly holding her certificate and an American flag. Since then, he’s supported five more students through the same process.
Not every story is glamorous. Some goals are smaller, less visible. Students bring goals like reading a book to their grandchildren, gaining confidence at a doctor’s office, or feeling comfortable texting a neighbor. Allen shows up for them, too. He builds trust and connection through respect and honesty, keeping himself out of the narrative and focusing on what is holding his students back. Allen advises tutors to, “Start slow and try to develop a style that fits the student’s needs and schedule. Do not pile on the books at the first session; you do not want to cause panic.”
Tutors and students meet wherever is most convenient—on Zoom, in coffee shops, or here on campus. Allen has taught in all of those places. He makes a point to find a setting that’s safe and (hopefully) quiet enough to concentrate. Zoom, he says, is great for Citizenship prep but tougher for math, where he prefers to sit side by side and with a whiteboard.
For all tutors, not every match is a success story. Sometimes, students stop showing up. This is challenging when there’s a commitment made and time invested, but Allen keeps perspective and shares his advice:
“Do not judge yourself or the student. Everyone has challenges and life pressures that get in the way of life goals. Try to reconnect once and then move on.”
Allen says tutoring has changed the way he thinks about education. He’s reminded often that not everyone had access to a good school system or family support. He’s also learned that it’s okay to evolve—using tools like YouTube or online resources to help students keep learning on their own time, while he focuses on encouragement and strategies that help them move forward.
For Allen, tutoring is more than just teaching—it’s about connection, compassion, and showing up, one student at a time. When asked what he’d say to someone thinking about becoming a tutor, Allen is quick to reassure them:
“You will not be helping by yourself. You will have great support from the CFLC staff and resources. You don’t need to have all the answers—and your work will be greatly appreciated.”
Allen’s story is special, but it’s not unusual. Every day, CFLC’s volunteers show up with the same dedication. They come ready to meet learners where they are and help them move forward. We’re proud to share Allen’s story and grateful for every volunteer who makes this work possible.
You can be a part of incredible stories like Allen’s by becoming a tutor today. Learn more by clicking here.
Bonus content! We interviewed Allen for some of this blog post, and he had a lot of great information and advice to share. While we couldn’t fit everything into one blog post, we couldn’t skip the opportunity to share!
What is a major highlight or key learning moment for you as a tutor?
Allen: I learn from students almost every time. Learning has changed since I was in school, so try new ways.
You’re an active volunteer in numerous organizations. What made you want to volunteer with CFLC?
Allen: I believe in its mission and the people there are great to work with. The work is mentally stimulating, and it is never boring!
How has volunteering impacted your life and relationships?
Allen: I think we should help others who have been less fortunate or made too many bad choices. It reminds me that I had many great opportunities in school and my career.