BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) — A western New York group is asking for volunteers to help adults who do not read or write English well.

Literacy New York Buffalo-Niagara says thousands of adults in Erie and Niagara counties are functionally illiterate. This means that thousands read below a fifth-grade level.

New York State currently ranks 49th in volunteerism in the entire nation, according to Literacy New York Buffalo-Niagara.

Despite this, Literacy New York wants 25 local volunteers to help tutor English.

Those interested in tutoring can call Julie Chojecki at 876-8991 or email julie.chojecki@literacybuffalo.org by September 16. A tutor training seminar will be held on September 17.