DALTON, Ga. — When Molly Zhou moved to Dalton from Florida five years ago to teach at Dalton State College she wanted to make a difference in the community.

“I think being a part of this community, I wanted to contribute and give back,” said Zhou, an associate professor of education at Dalton State College.

Zhou and fellow professor Marsha Mathews offer free tutoring services to students at the Mack Gaston Community Center. Tutoring is available for students in elementary, middle and high schools. Mathews teaches English at the college.

Zhou said she spoke with Tommy Pinson, director of the community center, about ways to help there. Pinson told her that parents often come in looking for help with homework.

“That’s how it all got started,” Zhou said of the tutoring that started in 2013.

Mathews came on board last fall. Pinson said it’s a great service for the community. “It’s a joint effort,” he said.

Pinson said Mathews uses the indoor track at the community center and noticed Zhou helping students one day and offered to help.

Zhou offers help in all subject areas on Tuesdays from 5 to 6 p.m., Mathews helps with writing skills on Thursdays from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.

“I think this is a great way to help students try to channel learning in a different way,” Zhou said. “Students have a lot going on, they’re in a school setting all day.”

The tutoring is in the computer labs and conference rooms. Zhou said it’s especially helpful for parents who may be at the center with another sibling for sports.

“We can help with homework while the other child is busy with sports,” she said.

Some students come on a need basis, but Zhou said there are those that are there all semester. Pinson said the beginning of the year is usually slow, but after progress reports come out more students come in. Zhou estimates about seven to 10 students come for help.

Pinson said the services are also beneficial for students whose parents may not speak English fluently and can’t help with homework.

Zhou said she just wants to help students do their best.

“When students come here they feel comfortable talking to me,” she said. She said she keeps students anonymous for the most part.

“I typically don’t keep their phone numbers or contact them,” she said. “I wait for them here at the community center.”

For that reason, anyone interested in a session should call the community center at (706) 278-8205 or come during the hours that tutoring is offered.

Pinson said he appreciates the tutoring.

“It’s great for students, hopefully more will take advantage of it,” he said.