LVA-Gadsden Recognizes Adult Learners, Tutors, and Board

by Jack Newell

LVA-Gadsden, Inc. recognized all adult learners and their tutors by awarding certificates. There are 29 students in the community Basic Read-ing/ESOL program. There are also 53 LVA - Gadsden adult-learners at Gadsden Correction Institution. Members of the Board of Directors for LVA-Gadsden, Inc. were also recognized for their superb volunteerism and diligent support. Each board member received a Certificate of Appreciation.

Mr. Jimmie Lennear, an adult learner who has been in LVA-Gadsden’s program for five years, addressed the audience. He related his experience as an adult learner with LVA and ways in which he has benefited from the program. He remarked that his life has been made better because he is now able to read, write, and handle his own business. He explained, “I didn’t have a driver’s license before I got involved with the program, but now I have my driver’s license. I also want to thank my tutor, Mrs. Pat Anderson, for all her help and patience in working with me. Thank you all.”

Mrs. Delores Hart-Roberts, a well-known storyteller from Miami, spoke to the audience on the topic, “Literacy, Pass It On.” Mrs. Hart-Roberts was in town for the Gadsden County Public Library’s Summer Youth Program. She encouraged everyone to continue the fight for “liter-acy.”

LVA-Gad-sden, Inc. now has two VISTA (Volunteers In Service to America) members. Robert L. Smith is work-ing with the WAGES board to help identify those clients in need of improved literacy skills. Joy L.Wyly will initiate activities and build capacity in family literacy programs. She will promote public awareness of the cycle of illiteracy perpetuated by at-risk families. Additional duties for each VISTA member include program promotion and tutor/student recruitment.

Volunteer tutor Caroline Mueller Griffin, a former V.I.S.T.A. and her husband Neil Griffin, a volunteer tutor, spoke on behalf of their adult learner who wanted to let the community know the benefits that he has received as a student with Literacy Volunteers.

Ernestine Barkley, LVA-Gadsden,
presents award to James Fuqua, volunteer.