2023-24

Volunteers' Stories 2023-24

Everyone has a unique story to tell, just waiting to be heard by others. From the front lines in Bosnia to the front offices in Manhattan, LVA’s volunteer tutors come to us with fascinating backgrounds. We are proud to share the stories of these amazing individuals who bring their varied experiences to their tutoring sessions with students.

Enjoy learning about people such as the former missionary who delivered medical supplies to remote villages, retired business professionals, lawyers, healthcare providers, college students and caregivers who balance home life, work and volunteering.

Beth Fuqua

With a background as a kindergarten teacher in Brooklyn and a history of volunteering in various capacities, Beth has always been passionate about education and helping others. She majored in Spanish in college, which equipped her with the skills to communicate with and understand students from diverse backgrounds.

Beth's journey with Literacy Volunteers of America (LVA) began when a fellow volunteer tutor introduced her to the organization. While the idea of working with ESL students through LVA intrigued her in the 2000s, life commitments kept her from pursuing the training. However, the advent of Zoom training reignited her enthusiasm, and she jumped at the opportunity.

Beth started teaching with LVA in January 2023. Since then, she has worked with a variety of students, each with unique challenges and backgrounds. Currently, she tutors three students: two from West Africa and one born in the United States. One of her West African students never went to school but speaks English fairly well after seven years in the U.S. Another West African student has a fifth-grade education and a stronger grasp of English. Her American student, who initially struggled after a stroke, has shown remarkable progress with Beth’s support.

One experience that profoundly impacted Beth involved her student from West Africa who had never attended school. This student shared a dramatic story of her journey to the United States. Despite these hardships, she remains dedicated to learning and improving her skills. Beth admires her resilience and determination, noting how hard she works as a hair braider while still finding time to attend classes and complete homework.

Beth's approach to teaching is unique and engaging. She starts each class with a song, a practice that her students love. Over time, she has introduced more than fifty songs, ranging from classic rock to older tunes, providing her students with a bit of cultural and historical context along with their language lessons. This method not only makes learning fun but also helps her students practice reading and pronunciation.

Having traveled extensively and lived in various countries, including Spain and England, Beth brings her personal experiences with language learning and cultural adaptation to her teaching, allowing her to empathize with her students' struggles and triumphs.

Beth finds certain aspects of tutoring challenging, such as finding appropriate non-fiction material for her students and balancing her time to take advantage of available workshops. Despite these challenges, the rewards are immense. Seeing her students learn and grow, their gratitude at the end of each class, and the ability to positively impact their lives bring Beth great joy.

Beth's dedication, creativity, and compassion make her an invaluable tutor at LVA. Her story highlights the power of volunteering and enhances our ongoing awareness of the profound impact one person can have on the lives of others.

Donna Fraissinet

Donna's journey to becoming a tutor for Literacy Volunteers of America (LVA) is as inspiring as it is heartfelt. A retiree with a rich tapestry of life experiences, Donna's enthusiasm for tutoring was ignited by a chance conversation with a friend, Olga Roberts. This serendipitous moment mirrored a previous life-changing decision when Donna felt an overwhelming urge to volunteer with Hospice. Her instinctive drive to make a difference has shaped her path and enriched the lives of many.

Originally from the Midwest, Donna moved to New York at eleven and has called New Jersey home for the past three decades.

Donna began tutoring about three years ago, motivated by Olga's enthusiastic account of her own experiences. Today, Donna works with two dedicated students, Chaivarit (Zeno) and Ximena, who have left a profound impression on her. Zeno, described by Donna as the hardest-working person she has ever met, exemplifies diligence and creativity. His ability to balance rigorous academic pursuits with his passion for singing and performing is a testament to his extraordinary character. Ximena, on the other hand, is the epitome of empathy and sophistication. An educated and articulate woman, Ximena's humble and kind nature has deeply touched Donna.

Donna's admiration for her students extends beyond their academic achievements. She recalls the warmth and vivacity of a former student, Irma Campos, and the strong bond they formed, which even led Donna to assist Irma in registering to vote after moving to Georgia. The friendships she has forged with her students are a source of immense pride and fulfillment.

One particularly memorable moment for Donna was when she observed a group of her students—Irma, Favia, and a Turkish woman—collaboratively solving a challenging worksheet. Despite Donna's self-admitted struggle with math, she was moved by their intelligence, cooperation, and determination. These women, like all of Donna's students, embody the resilience and courage it takes to adapt to a new culture and language.

Donna's message to her students is one of unwavering admiration and respect. She sees them as heroes for their openness, hard work, and significant achievements. For Donna, the most rewarding aspect of tutoring is the opportunity to continue learning and sharing her knowledge of English. The most challenging part, however, is recognizing that learning a new language requires patience, repetition, and practice—something Donna herself grapples with, given her penchant for immediate results.

Through her dedication and empathy, Donna has become an invaluable LVA community member, inspiring her students and fellow tutors alike. Her story of how she learned about us reminds us of the importance of building community and sharing the love of what we do with others (thank you, Olga!). In Donna, we can see the impact one person can make and the extraordinary strength found in the pursuit of knowledge and understanding.

Cody Sullivan

In a fast-paced world where time is a scarce resource, individuals like Cody Sullivan emit a shining light of generosity and dedication. As the Publications Coordinator for the Electrochemical Society by day, Cody assumes a different role in the evenings and on weekends by volunteering as a tutor for Literacy Volunteers of America (LVA), aiming to empower others through the gift of language.

As he approaches his one-year anniversary with LVA this month, Cody reflects on his journey with a combination of humility and enthusiasm. "I was excited for the opportunity to volunteer in a way that I believed would be a good match for my skill set," he shares. With a bachelor's degree in journalism and a flair for communication, Cody recognized the potential to make a tangible difference by assisting others in mastering the English language.

Currently, Cody is guiding three students, but his role goes beyond teaching. It's about empathy and encouragement. One of his students, Nelly, is a testament to his dedication. Despite the challenges, her unwavering attendance and thirst for knowledge inspire both Cody and her peers.

Reflecting on his experience, Cody acknowledges the reciprocal nature of his role. "Working with LVA has been just as much of a learning experience for me as well," he admits. Wrestling with self-doubt and the quest for effectiveness, Cody finds solace and validation in the words of his students, such as when one expressed, "When you teach, I understand." Such affirmations underscore consistent support and guidance's profound impact on language learning.

Cody emphasizes the paramount importance of consistency in language acquisition when navigating the challenges posed by students' busy lives and scheduling conflicts. "Consistency is the most crucial part of learning a language," he asserts, highlighting the delicate balance required to foster progress amidst life's myriad demands.

Beyond the classroom, Cody finds invaluable support in his wife, Daniela, a Peruvian immigrant and Spanish speaker. Together, they navigate the nuances of language acquisition, drawing insights from their shared experiences and discussions. Amidst their companionship, two feline friends, Popeye and Cleo, add warmth and joy to their lives, grounding them in a sense of community and belonging.

As Cody continues to illuminate pathways to linguistic proficiency and cultural exchange, his story serves as a poignant reminder of the transformative power of volunteerism and the enduring bonds forged through the shared pursuit of knowledge. In a world often fragmented by barriers of language and culture, individuals like Cody embody the ethos of unity and compassion, bridging divides and nurturing connections that transcend linguistic boundaries.

Maritza Chang

Maritza Chang's journey from Peru to the United States was a long and difficult one, marked by numerous challenges and obstacles. She arrived in August 2015 with her husband and two young daughters, hoping to build a better future for her family. However, the road ahead was anything but easy.

As the third of four siblings, Maritza was a clinical child psychologist in Peru, specializing in autism and Asperger's syndrome. She was deeply passionate about helping others and was committed to education, obtaining diplomas in play therapy and family therapy to enhance her skills in positive discipline as both a parent and classroom educator.

Upon arriving in the U.S., Maritza's first hurdle was language proficiency. She struggled to communicate with those around her and found it challenging to find work. She sought out resources and support, eventually connecting with Literacy Volunteers of America. Despite the initial struggles, she was determined to learn English, utilizing every opportunity to practice, from watching TV and listening to audiobooks to participating in language exchange groups.

Through sheer determination and steady perseverance, Maritza's language skills flourished. She not only mastered English but also embraced her newfound language as a tool for independence and empowerment. With her enhanced communication abilities, she managed to secure a job as a Bilingual Library Assistant at the Bloomfield Public Library, where she contributes to various programs and initiatives.

In her role, Maritza's commitment shines brightly as she engages with the community through bilingual story hours, facilitates the Spanish Book Club, leads adult Craft workshops, and curates monthly movie displays. Her commitment to fostering literacy and cultural exchange reflects her profound belief in the ability of education to change people’s lives.

Maritza's incredible journey is a testament to the endless possibilities that exist for those who dare to dream. With courage and resolve, she overcame the complexities of immigration and language barriers, building a brighter future for herself and her family.

With a compassionate heart, Maritza continues to inspire those around her. Through her hard work, perseverance, and lifelong commitment to learning, she embodies the true essence of success. Her aspirations include furthering her education and obtaining a master's degree, all while paving the way for her daughters to pursue their dreams.

Maritza's contributions to Literacy Volunteers of America have been significant, and she now serves on their Board of Directors. Her enthusiasm for fostering literacy and cultural exchange reflects her deep belief in education opening doors. Maritza's journey is a shining example of how resilience, determination, and hard work can overcome even the most challenging obstacles. Her story is a reminder that opportunities exist for those who are willing to take risks and work hard.

Sydnay Eckerling

Amid the vibrant tapestry of cultures and stories, Sydnay, a dedicated tutor with Literacy Volunteers of America, weaves connections that go beyond the pages of textbooks. Her professional and personal journey paints a picture of commitment and passion for encouraging others through literacy.

Originally from Colorado, Sydnay's background in teaching children and early childhood education forms the foundation of her expertise. Before making the cross-country move to New Jersey, she was immersed in the world of pre-k and elementary education. Sydnay carries the torch of learning even in her personal life, now navigating the intricate landscape of English as a Second Language (ESL). This shift in perspective has unveiled the rich stories of her students' backgrounds, inviting her to explore the diverse paths that lead individuals to the literacy program.

Embracing the challenge of a new environment, Sydnay joined Literacy Volunteers of America a year ago. Drawn by the prospect of shared learning with her students, she finds joy in discovering the intricacies of different cultures and experiences. With four students under her guidance, she creates a supportive space where both tutor and learners embark on a journey of mutual understanding.

Witnessing their growth in communication skills, from sending emails to engaging with their children's teachers, Sydnay sees the practical impact of literacy in the daily lives of her students. The classroom becomes a melting pot of stories, traditions, and cultures, fostering an environment where barriers dissolve and confidence blooms. Over time, she witnesses their transformation as they become more confident, sharing their stories and experiences with pride.

Sydnay wants her students to know that she is on this learning journey with them, finding immense value in being a part of their communities. The reciprocal nature of the experience enriches both tutor and learner, creating a dynamic learning environment.

Navigating the challenges of virtual learning, especially the technology barrier faced by many students using their phones, Sydnay finds herself balancing the intricacies of modern education. However, the rewards outweigh the challenges.
Beyond the realm of education, Sydnay shares a glimpse into her personal world. A lover of photography and art, she indulges in watercolor painting for fun. Her fondness for the outdoors shines through in her family hikes, accompanied by their two dogs.

Sydnay's story with Literacy Volunteers of America is not just about teaching and learning; it's a celebration of connection, understanding, and the profound impact literacy can have on individuals and communities alike.

Sabina Soloway

Sabina Soloway, a seasoned educator with a passion for language acquisition and the neuroscience of learning, has had an extensive career spanning over 35 years. Her journey began at Brown University, where she majored in cognitive science, laying the foundation for her fascination with the intricacies of language and the science behind learning. Sabina's academic pursuits have always been deeply rooted in her commitment to education, as evidenced by her decision to become a 4th-grade teacher straight out of college.

Sabina's experience as an educator has been fueled by her deep interest in the cognitive processes involved in education. This led her to pursue a master's degree in learning disabilities at Columbia University's Teacher's College, where she gained a deeper understanding of the science of learning and the importance of individualized instruction. Despite acquiring her master's, Sabina remained in mainstream classrooms, adding a touch of early childhood science to her repertoire.

After retiring from the traditional classroom setting, Sabina found herself drawn to private tutoring, crafting science curricula for fellow educators, and assisting high school students with college application essays. Her diverse experiences equipped her with a unique set of skills, making her a valuable asset to the Literacy Volunteers of America (LVA) program when she joined in the summer of 2023.

The decision to become a tutor for the LVA was driven by Sabina's teaching background and a desire to work with adults. The flexibility of online tutoring allowed her to transcend geographical constraints and reach learners in various locations. What strikes her most about the LVA experience is the genuine dedication of her adult students, each motivated in a distinct way.

Currently tutoring four students, Sabina appreciates the diverse educational backgrounds they bring from their home countries. One student, a newcomer from Haiti, stands out with his delightful sense of humor and cleverness. Sabina emphasizes the importance of creating a safe space for students like him seeking refuge in the classroom.

Sabina finds the work ethic of her LVA students remarkably impressive. Their commitment, often requiring sacrifices, leaves a lasting impression on her. She recounts the story of a student who, despite being away for a month visiting family, continued attending class virtually, showcasing unwavering dedication.

In sharing something most people wouldn't know, Sabina reveals a delightful daily ritual – receiving a curated poem in her email. This small yet enriching part of her life has become a special morning tradition, one she contemplates extending to her students by sharing a poem a week.

As Sabina continues to enrich the lives of her students at the Literacy Volunteers of America, her story exemplifies the profound impact that dedicated educators can have on the lives of their students. By transcending traditional classrooms, Sabina has created meaningful connections and instilled a love of learning in her students, regardless of age or background.

Hannah Beykirch

In a quiet corner of Essex and Passaic Counties, Hannah Beykirch, an editorial assistant at an educational publishing company, has discovered a profound calling as a tutor with Literacy Volunteers of America (LVA). Her teaching journey began in March 2023, driven by a desire for community involvement and a curiosity about the transformative power of education.

With a Bachelor's in English from Brooklyn College, Beykirch's commitment to literacy education extends beyond textbooks and grammar exercises. Currently teaching three adult students, she is drawn to LVA's abundant resources and the robust support system for both tutors and learners.

Denise, one of her standout students, arrived with minimal reading and writing skills but possessed an undeniable determination. In Jamaica, she ran a thriving business, supporting her children's education. Now, with her children grown, Denise focuses on her own learning journey, radiating joy with each triumph while also supporting fellow students.

Beykirch's teaching goes beyond language acquisition—it becomes a cultural exchange. An impactful moment involved Marie, a student navigating grief after losing two family members. Their sessions became a bridge, dissolving language and cultural barriers, revealing the delicate balance required for effective communication.

Beykirch sees herself as a fellow learner, finding value in the reciprocal relationship between tutor and student. Her sessions become a dynamic exchange, with each meeting guiding her in refining lessons and tailoring them to individual needs. Beyond the academic, she delights in learning about her students' lives, creating a holistic educational experience.

Navigating students at varying proficiency levels presents challenges, but for Beykirch, it's an engaging puzzle. Crafting lessons that cater to diverse needs keeps her energized, ensuring each student feels acknowledged. The rewards are immeasurable—witnessing a student's excitement at mastering a new skill is the heart of her teaching.

Fanta, her newest student, recently asked for help sending a text message to a friend—a seemingly routine task but a significant milestone in language acquisition. The sheer happiness in Fanta's eyes exemplifies the impact literacy has on confidence and accomplishment.

Beykirch's passion for teaching extends beyond her role as a tutor. She secretly revels in reading and occasionally writing poetry, finding in it a means to reconnect with the beauty of language. Poetry, for her, serves as a reminder of the profound gift it is to forge connections through shared words.

In the heart of Essex and Passaic Counties, Hannah Beykirch's story becomes an ode to the enduring power of literacy—a force that touches many lives, fosters connections, and bridges gaps. Her dedication echoes in the voices of those who once struggled to be heard, now resonating with newfound confidence thanks to her commitment.

Louis D'Onofrio

Lou D’Onofrio has been a tutor with Literacy Volunteers of America (LVA) for about 10 years. He started with LVA Suffolk County (Long Island) and joined LVA, Essex-Passaic when he moved to New Jersey in 2022. Lou believes strongly in the mission of LVA and enjoys meeting with and learning about the customs and cultures of people from other countries. Currently, he is working with five adult students who are a diverse group of different ages and have come from different countries.

Lou has a Bachelor's degree in Engineering Science from SUNY Stony Brook and most of his professional experience was in the energy field where he worked in Project Management. Lou and his wife have two adult children and four grandchildren. They lived on Long Island until 2022 when they moved to New Jersey to be closer to their children and grandchildren.

When asked about a student that stood out to him, Lou shared that several students have stood out to him because of their hard work and determination to learn English to improve their lives. One LVA student recently got a better job because of her improved English, which made Lou very proud.

Lou recently attended the LVA Annual Awards Ceremony where he was very impressed by the stories of many of the students in the program who have made great personal sacrifices to come to the US. He received the Tutor of the Year Award from the LVA, Essex-Passaic, and he is grateful for this recognition and for the support of the LVA organization staff.

Lou emphasizes his openness to new ideas in helping his students attain their goals. He finds the challenge of preparing weekly lesson plans for diverse students with varying goals and abilities rewarding. The most fulfilling moments come when students share that something discussed in class has significantly impacted them.

When asked what he would like students to know about him, Lou said that he is always open to suggestions that will help his students attain their goals. In addition, Lou encouraged his wife to become a Literacy Volunteer when they were living on Long Island. Although they have moved to New Jersey, she is still able to continue tutoring a Basic Literacy (learning disabled) adult through the LVA-Suffolk County chapter.

Lou's journey as a tutor at LVA is an inspiration to many. He has dedicated his time and efforts to helping adult students achieve their goals and improve their lives through better literacy skills. His passion for teaching and commitment to his students are evident in the progress and successes they achieve. Lou's hard work and dedication to the LVA program have been recognized with the Tutor of the Year Award, which speaks to his exceptional skills as an educator.

In summary, Lou Donofrio's journey to supporting adult literacy students at LVA is a success story that inspires and motivates. His dedication to the program and his students is exemplary, and his achievements as a tutor are proof of his exceptional skills and commitment. Lou's story is a testament to the impact that LVA and its volunteers can have on the lives of adult learners, and it serves as a reminder of the importance of literacy in achieving personal, educational, and career goals.

John Weckenmann

John Weckenmann, a tutor at Literacy Volunteers of America of Essex and Passaic Counties, has been teaching with LVA for a little more than a year. He graduated from New York University with a degree in English literature and a minor in linguistics. After retiring from his career in public relations, he still does freelance writing for the company he most recently worked for.

His love for languages and reading drew him to become a literacy volunteer after his retirement. He discovered LVA while researching literacy organizations in the area and thought it had a worthwhile and compelling mission. It turns out that a friend from his church is also a volunteer (she was in a photo he found on the LVA website), and she encouraged him as well.

John had been working with five students and shared one student is leaving the program to participate in a class that will prepare her for the high school equivalency exam. That student’s final class happened a couple of weeks ago, and it is always a special moment when students get to the point where they can continue onwards in their learning journey.

In his time teaching, John has had several students who have stood out for him. Some are stories of success and hope, and some illustrate adult students' difficulties. Evangelina, profiled in the newsletter recently, has been with him almost from the beginning. She is a highly motivated student who is laser-focused on improving her English language skills to pursue a career as an HR training professional. John also mentioned the story of another student, a young man from Guatemala, who had to drop out of the program due to a change in his work schedule and his need to earn extra money to help his family back home. “He was a very faithful and hardworking student (and a lot of fun), and I was very sorry to see him go. It just reinforced for me the challenges that some of our students face and how important this work is. I hope he has an opportunity to return to the program someday,” – John shared.

John’s grandparents were immigrants on his mother’s side, and he stated his grandmother never learned to speak English well. A familiar story to many of our students: when she wanted to go shopping in the department stores downtown, his mother would accompany her to translate and serve as an intermediary with the sales staff. He didn’t know his grandmother, as she passed away when he was quite young, but he thinks of her often, and her memory keeps him motivated.

The tutors at LVA are dedicated volunteers who help students improve their literacy skills and achieve their goals. John Weckenmann is one such tutor who has been making significant contributions to the program. His passion for languages and reading has made him an excellent tutor at LVA, and our students are lucky to have him.

Sally Rice

In the heart of Essex County, New Jersey, a dedicated leader, Sally Rice, has been championing literacy for almost four decades. Sally's journey began in the 1980s as the Supervising Librarian and Coordinator of Adult Services for the East Orange Public Library. Her passion for literacy led her to represent the library in the Essex Literacy Consortium, setting her on a path of profound impact.

Sally's commitment to literacy deepened when she joined the Board of Directors of Literacy Volunteers of America (LVA) Essex County. Her involvement continued as LVA Essex County merged with the Newark branch in 1993, and she took the helm as President from 1995 to 2006 and later resumed the role from 2009 to the present having added Passaic County to their area of support as well.

One of Sally's favorite initiatives was the annual awards ceremony, celebrating student and tutor accomplishments that brought the community together. The program demonstrated the tangible results of their hard work, from students achieving personal goals like obtaining a driver's license or U.S. citizenship to tutors finding personal fulfillment in their experiences.

When asked about a standout student or moment, Sally emphasized the diverse group tutoring approach that this LVA chapter has adopted. With students seeking assistance for various reasons, from citizenship tests to practical life skills, it's challenging to pinpoint just one memorable experience. However, Sally highlighted the inspiring work of Ruth Colvin, the founder of LVA in Syracuse, who has earned numerous awards for her contributions to literacy.

For Sally, what sets LVA apart is the flexibility it offers tutors in tailoring their teaching methods to students' unique life experiences. Whether helping someone pass a citizenship test or achieve personal goals, the program allows for creative teaching approaches.

Sally's personal commitment to literacy is rooted in her lifelong career as a librarian. She recognizes the need for literacy support not only in the context of libraries but also for those new to the country and those struggling with functional illiteracy. She's also an avid traveler who recently returned from a vacation in Cape Cod, a place that has held a special spot in her heart since the 1950s.

Reflecting on the challenges LVA faces, Sally mentioned the shifting landscape of funding sources and state requirements for grants. Despite these hurdles, she remains resolute in her dedication to the program. "The rewards outweigh the challenges," she affirms, highlighting the program's transformational impact on students and tutors.

As she contemplates passing the torch, Sally Rice's legacy as a champion for literacy in Essex County continues to illuminate the path forward. Her unwavering commitment to the cause reminds us that literacy is not just about reading and writing—it's about empowering individuals to reach their fullest potential, one word at a time.

Olga Roberts

Within the dynamic landscape of LVA of Essex & Passaic Counties, a genuine and down-to-earth figure named Olga Roberts enriches the tapestry of learning and growth.

Olga's connection with ESOL volunteering and teaching at LVA and NCC dates back to 2018. Her educational background includes a New School for Social Research certificate and a Bachelor of Arts in English from Rutgers University, Newark. Olga's professional journey spans from real estate brokerage to advertising and public relations in the bustling city of New York, coupled with her experiences as a former restaurant worker.

Her story takes an international twist, reflecting her own immigrant experience from England to New York City in 1964. This transition placed her in the midst of a Ukrainian family, and her familiarity with English became a bridge between languages and cultures.

Driven by her passion for teaching, Olga's journey with LVA began with volunteering, guiding three students on their language-learning path. She has also stepped into the role of a teacher, leading a class of thirty.

One memorable student, an immigrant from Peru, stands out for his dedication despite his grueling 14-hour shifts as a cook. To support this particular student, Olga found a short book on the story of Mohammed Ali, someone the student really admired. Sitting in the downstairs area of the library working one-on-one, they got to a part of the book that shares how Cassius Clay, at fourteen years old, had never been out with a girl or introduced to women faints the moment his first date says hello. Coming from a culture where this would be unthinkable, Olga's student laughed like crazy. His commitment and Olga’s creativity in engaging him echo the resilience and determination that defines the spirit of LVA's community.

Olga's classroom is not just a space for learning but also a haven of laughter, courage, and camaraderie. She admires her students' unwavering kindness, humor, and courage, knowing the hardships they’ve experienced as immigrants and even in their journey to the U.S. Olga appreciates their upbeat outlook on life.

When asked about something that’s left an impression, Olga shared how hard everyone at LVA works and highlighted the need for increased funding to help programs like LVA continue to expand their reach. “The program needs to expand to meet the needs of incoming immigrants,” – she shared.

Beyond her role as a tutor, Olga reveals a lesser-known facet—in her days as a college student, she took on some catering gigs and found herself at an event for none other than the iconic Rolling Stones!

Olga's approach to teaching is summed up in her promise to students—a mix of hard work and a touch of fun. Her commitment to education is underpinned by her ability to foster a sense of camaraderie that enriches the lives of every student she encounters. Her journey embodies the essence of LVA's mission—a celebration of education, community, and the human spirit.

Eve Peterson

A resident of the City of Orange is making a significant impact on the lives of students through her dedication to teaching literacy and English as a Second Language (ESL). Meet Eve Peterson, a passionate advocate for education and community empowerment.

With a diverse professional background encompassing community activism, marketing, and consulting for nonprofits, Eve's love for learning and helping others led her to volunteer with Literacy Volunteers of Essex and Passaic Counties in November 2019. Drawn to the program by her previous experiences teaching English in France and her passion for languages, Eve saw it as a perfect fit.

One of Eve's most memorable experiences was with her student, Marie. Marie arrived with no previous schooling and lacked the ability to read or write. Together, they embarked on a journey that continues to transform Marie's life. The joy and triumph were palpable the day Marie read her first sentence on her own. Despite being physically apart and communicating through WhatsApp, their smiles and laughter transcended the distance, marking a monumental milestone.

However, teaching Marie English presented its challenges. Having never studied the language before, Marie struggled to comprehend and speak it, despite living in the States for a decade. Eve recognized the need to make the lessons relevant to Marie's life and culture, generating text and using materials that resonated with her experiences. From personal narratives to picture books, Eve aimed to provide Marie with a well-rounded reading experience, allowing her to immerse herself in stories and nurture a love for literature.

The journey towards literacy and English fluency as an adult in a foreign language demands patience and perseverance. As a busy adult trying to earn a living, Marie often lacked the energy and time for homework, so progress has come slowly. Eve has been employing many creative teaching methods, including videos visually reinforcing phonics and letter combinations. To bridge language barriers, Eve occasionally resorted to speaking French, Marie's native language.

Eve's dedication to teaching has transformed Marie’s life and enriched her own. Through her experience with the literacy program, Eve has gained a profound understanding of cultural humility and the struggles faced by immigrants. She has delved deep into Guinea's rich heritage (where Marie is originally from), expanding her knowledge of West African culture, food, politics, and history. Beyond academic growth, Eve has formed a genuine connection with Marie, a compassionate individual with contagious laughter and a heart of gold.

Outside the classroom, Eve harbors a lesser-known passion: dancing. Behind the steadfast tutor, Eve enjoys travel, gardening, tai chi, swimming, hiking, paddling, yoga, reading, cooking, volunteering on political campaigns, taking in theater and museums, and spending time with friends and family, including her three grandnieces.

Helping someone learn a new language from scratch, including a new alphabet and writing skills, takes a lot of effort and dedication. With her unwavering commitment, Eve is making a difference, one student at a time.