The Literacy Together staff has been investing time in learning about building equity and social justice within Literacy Together, in the nonprofit sector, and in our local community. Here are some resources that we are using to equip ourselves with knowledge and educated opinions. Volunteer tutors may be interested in learning through these same resources, and possibly even sharing what they learn with students in lessons, as they see appropriate.
Partnering with nonprofit organizations and community involvement have always been a big part of New Belgium. It’s so important to us to show up authentically in the communities where we do business, to give back to those who have supported us along the way, and to advocate for a future that’s bright for all.”– New Belgium Brewing
The Literacy Council trains Augustine Project volunteers to tutor low-income children who read, write or spell below grade level. In the past, tutors have been required to complete two weeks of face-to-face training, which created a barrier for many interested volunteers.
To make the tutoring experience more accessible, we are piloting a Hybrid Training Model. This new training only requires 16 hours of face-to-face pre-service training. To ensure that Hybrid Training Model volunteers are still fully prepared to tutor struggling young readers, the additional training content is delivered online and through follow-up lesson observations.
The Hybrid Training Model will be offered for the first time November 11-12 from 9:00 am – 5:00 pm at the Literacy Council. Approximately 10 hours of online instruction will be required before attending.
Contact Niki Paganelli at niki@litcouncil.com or 828-254-3442 x202 to learn more and sign up for the upcoming tutor training. Click here to read more about the Augustine Project program.
Buncombe County Public Libraries recently launched a new program to give library card holders access to free passes for local museums and attractions. It’s called a ZOOM pass, and anyone with a library card has access to the program.
This creates an opportunity for Literacy Council tutors to take their students on field trips to museums and hubs of community life–at no cost. Consider using a ZOOM pass to accompany your ESOL student to a place they have never been and practice their English skills in a new environment. Or take your Adult Education student to a museum and practice reading the venue map, signs, or exhibit descriptions together. Or just take your student somewhere new in celebration of achieving a personal literacy goal!
Click here to make your reservation with your library card number, then pick up your pass at Pack Library and enjoy your day
Take your library card to the Youth Services Desk downstairs at Pack Library (downtown Asheville) to pick up your pass up to 48 hours before your visit.
Take your ZOOM pass to the museum or attraction for FREE admission.
This program was funded by the Buncombe County Friends of the Library.
Sueños is the name of the mural created by El Centro of Henderson County youth in 2003. It shows the beauty of the Latino culture in the United States. Photo courtesy of El Centro.
Join the Literacy Council for the opening reception of the “Mi Historia: Latinos Today in Western North Carolina” exhibit on Monday, April 24th at 5:30 pm. All volunteers, tutors, students, and community members are welcome to participate in the event as we offer a glimpse into the important stories of the local immigrant population. Light hors d’oeuvres, beer, and wine will be provided.
What is the exhibit about?
This stunning collection of personal testimony and imagery covers everything from why individuals left their home countries to the realities of day-to-day life in the United States. You can expect to learn more about how Latinos have contributed to the state economy, navigated identity conflicts, overcome language barriers, and shared important aspects of culture, such as religion, food, holidays, and art.
Can’t make opening night?
This exhibit is on loan from the Center for Diversity Education at UNC Asheville and will be available for viewing during regular business hours through the end of May. If you have an extra 30 minutes, stop by the Literacy Council for a self-guided tour of the display. Activity guides will also available to help facilitate reflection.