2024-25

Students' Success Stories 2024-25

We all enjoy success stories. They are positive messages about overcoming obstacles, working hard for the reward, and finding satisfaction in completing challenges. Read about the students who have obtained citizenship, those who escaped war torn countries and now have assimilated into American society and absorbed our culture, and those who finally read a bedtime story to a young child or grandchild. That last achievement has a special significance for a Basic Literacy student after a lifetime of frustration and low self-esteem. Here at Literacy Volunteers of America we like to celebrate all those positive events in our students’ lives. Sometimes we celebrate with hugs and treats, but most often, we share these achievements with others through this page on our website. That way all of our LVA community can share in the celebration of their success!

Blandon

When Blandon arrived in the United States in January 2024, he brought more than a suitcase. He carried a dream, a lifetime of experience, and the determination to start over with dignity and purpose.

In Haiti, Blandon was a teacher, a journalist, and a leader among youth. He studied Modern Letters at the State University of Haiti and spent more than two years coordinating a youth association at his church. He created and hosted radio programs, led workshops on leadership and communication, and managed a small community library in his hometown of L’Estère. His deep investment in education, culture, and youth development earned him national recognition in 2022 as one of Haiti’s most influential young leaders.

But by 2023, the situation in his country had deteriorated. Political instability and violence made it increasingly dangerous to continue working. Armed groups threatened his safety and forced him from his home. “It became too dangerous to practice my profession,” Blandon says. “I had no other choice but to leave.” With his life at risk, he made the difficult decision to seek asylum in the United States.

Starting over was not easy—but Blandon was determined. “I knew I had to keep learning,” he says. “That’s how I would rebuild.” Soon after arriving, he began searching for English classes. With the help of Dr. Brandi Gabriel and the Bloomfield Library, he was referred to LVAEP and enrolled in March 2024.

Though he already had a strong understanding of English grammar, Blandon wanted to improve his speaking skills and gain confidence in real-world conversation. “I needed to pronounce better, speak fluently, and understand expressions used in daily life,” he explains. With the support of his instructors—Jalaire Craver, Lidya Mekhail, Rosa Marisol Ramirez, Nancy Jeudi, and Mary Kao—he began to thrive. “They do more than teach. They support me emotionally, guide me in adjusting to life here, and give me hope.”

Blandon structures each day with purpose. He studies English in the mornings and spends his afternoons in computer classes, nutrition workshops, and journalism training—all in English. “Since learning English, I got a job quickly, met new people, and picked up my journalism studies again,” he says. “It’s been a transformation.”

He dreams of returning to radio or television, this time as a journalist in the United States. “I want to use my voice again—to report, to uplift, and to inform. That’s my calling.”

Blandon credits his progress to his faith, his parents, mentors from Haiti, a sponsor family in Pennsylvania, and the LVAEP community. “Thanks to all these people, I have the strength to keep moving forward.”

“Learning English helped me do more than communicate,” he says. “It helped me reconnect with who I am—and imagine who I can still become.”

Jimena

Three years ago, Jimena arrived in the United States from Cuenca, Ecuador, after waiting 15 years for the opportunity. Her sister, a U.S. citizen, had petitioned for her legal entry, and when the day finally arrived, she stepped into a world full of possibilities but also daunting challenges. Chief among them was learning English.

Life in Queens, where she first lived, was overwhelming. Everything was in English, making even simple tasks difficult. Determined to adapt, she sought resources to help her learn the language. A visit to the local library introduced her to literacy programs, but she wasn’t able to enroll at the time. When she later moved to Passaic, she recognized the name of an organization—LVA—on a flyer and reached out. That connection changed everything.

Her first lessons were humbling. She started with the alphabet, relearning language in a way that reminded her of childhood. But she persisted, slowly improving her grammar, reading, and speech. Pronunciation remained her biggest challenge, yet with daily practice and support from tutors, she made steady progress.

Jimena’s love for learning had deep roots. In Ecuador, she had trained as an accounting assistant and even pursued a degree in math education before family responsibilities shifted her priorities. As a single mother, she dedicated herself to ensuring her children’s success, putting her own dreams on hold. Seeing them achieve their goals became her greatest accomplishment.

Now, in the U.S., she was determined to create new opportunities for herself. Learning English was not just about communication—it was about independence and advancement. She balanced her studies with work, initially taking weekend shifts to support herself. Eventually, she stepped back from weekend work to take computer classes, recognizing education as a steppingstone to a better future.

Her journey has been filled with challenges, including setbacks that tested her resilience. While working for UberEats, a parked car accident left her with financial losses, but she refused to be discouraged. She treated every obstacle as a lesson, a chance to grow stronger.

Through LVA, she found more than just language skills—she found confidence. The patience of her tutors and the supportive environment encouraged her to keep going, even when she struggled to remember new words. She set up her computer in English, practiced whenever she could, and sought help when needed, even calling her son for assistance.

Jimena’s goal is clear: to build a stable future, bring her children to the U.S., and one day gain citizenship. Each step forward, no matter how small, brings her closer. She has learned that progress isn’t about speed but persistence, and with every new word, she moves closer to the life she envisions.

Neila

Neila arrived in the United States in December 2023, leaving behind her home in Haiti with the hope of a brighter future. Her journey wasn’t simple—she missed a flight along the way due to long lines at immigration, forcing her to navigate the complexities of travel on her own. But for Neila, challenges are nothing new. Back home, she learned to survive in a place where daily life could be unpredictable and opportunities were scarce, especially for young women.

Now, in New Jersey, Neila is charting a new path for herself. One of her first goals? To master English. She had some experience with the language before—she studied it in high school and practiced with her teachers—but learning in Haiti was different from fully immersing herself in an English-speaking country. “I like English, but I learn English because I want to be able to speak with other people and find opportunities,” she says.

Neila first learned about Literacy Volunteers of America (LVA) through Essex County College and some flyers she picked up. Encouraged by the possibility of improving her skills, she decided to give it a try. Now, as a dedicated student at LVA, she balances work and late nights to make time for her studies. “I work at night, sometimes until 1 a.m.,” she shares. “It’s really hard, but I always try. I’m trying to do my best and make a good plan to continue with my classes.”

One of her biggest challenges in learning English is pronunciation. “I know some words, but when I hear a person say them, it’s better,” she explains. Living in a household where everyone speaks French and Creole makes it difficult to practice, but Neila is determined. She reads English books and takes every opportunity to improve.

She recalls a moment that solidified just how important learning English is to her. On her journey to the U.S., she met a group of Haitians who didn’t speak English. When they missed their flight, she became their translator, helping them communicate with airport staff. “They were crying because they didn’t have the resources,” she says. “I helped translate for them, and they got the right help. I will never forget that.”

For Neila, learning English isn’t just about personal growth—it’s about helping others and making her family proud. “Starting can be difficult, stressful, and you may be shy,” she advises other learners. “But if you keep studying and trying to learn more, it will get better. You have to keep working on it.”

Her future is bright, and her goals are clear. “I want to be proud of myself and make my parents proud of me by doing my best and getting better,” she says. With her resilience and determination, there’s no doubt that Neila will achieve exactly that.

Giordany

Giordany, a Haitian immigrant, embodies resilience and determination as he pursues his dream of returning to education—a field he cherishes deeply. Arriving in the United States in May 2023, Giordany’s journey to his new home was straightforward, thanks to his supportive family who helped him book a plane ticket. Yet, the path to realizing his ambitions has been anything but simple.

Speaking three languages—Haitian Creole, French, and now English—Giordany knew from an early age that mastering English would be essential. “If I can speak and write English correctly, it will help me in my professional career and studies,” he explains. Although he studied English for nine years in Haiti, it wasn’t until he joined **Literacy Volunteers of America** (LVA) that his speaking skills began to flourish. A friend introduced him to LVA and assisted with registration, and Giordany has embraced the opportunity with enthusiasm.

Initially, expressing himself in English was a challenge. “It was difficult for me to speak English,” he recalls, “but now I can express myself clearly.” Despite his progress, Giordany remains committed to improvement, particularly in spelling and expanding his vocabulary. He finds inspiration in his favorite book, the Bible, which teaches him valuable life lessons and helps him maintain strong relationships with others.

Education has always been a cornerstone of Giordany’s life. In Haiti, he pursued his studies with unrelenting passion, even when faced with significant obstacles like illness during university. Despite these challenges, he successfully earned his degree and became a mathematics and physics teacher, a role he describes as his proudest accomplishment. “I was determined to finish my studies and face life’s difficulties,” he shares, reflecting on his unwavering dedication to the teaching profession.

Now, as a Learning Ambassador at Amazon, Giordany uses his English skills daily to communicate effectively with colleagues and guide others. He vividly remembers a defining moment during his first interview: “I answered the questions easily, and I became an employee at Amazon—all thanks to learning English. Everything is easier now.” His aspirations don’t stop there. Giordany dreams of becoming a manager at Amazon while simultaneously pursuing further studies to return to teaching, his true passion.

Giordany credits much of his success to his LVA tutors. “They encourage me to speak, are very patient, and prepare each lesson well. Thank you so much to my English teachers,” he says gratefully. His journey hasn’t been without setbacks—like the day he fell asleep on the bus and missed a class—but these moments only strengthened his resolve.

For Giordany, learning English is more than a skill; it’s a key to a brighter future. His advice to others is simple yet profound: “With determination and discipline, you can achieve your dreams and goals.” Giordany's story highlights how education and determination can lead to success.

Erika

Ten years ago, Erika left her home in Ecuador to start a new chapter in the United States. A fluent Spanish speaker and accomplished graduate with a degree in Auditing and Accounting from the Central University of Ecuador, Erika arrived in the U.S. ready to provide a better life for her daughters. Yet, she quickly realized that her inability to speak English posed a significant challenge.

Erika discovered Literacy Volunteers of America (LVA) three years ago through a friend. Since then, she has been steadily working to improve her English skills. For Erika, learning the language wasn’t just about personal growth; it was a means to communicate effectively and help her daughters succeed in school. “It’s important to be able to communicate,” Erika shares. “I did it for my daughters, to help them with their homework.”

Her journey hasn’t been without obstacles. Erika admits that one of her biggest challenges was overcoming her fear of speaking. “When people spoke English, I didn’t understand anything. I was afraid to go out and not be able to express what I needed,” she says. But with the encouragement of her tutors and the structured support provided by LVA, Erika has slowly chipped away at that fear. “The tutors help me with pronunciation, reading books, and grammar,” she explains. “By learning a little English, you can open up more goals for yourself.”

Erika’s favorite book, The House on Mango Street by Sandra Cisneros, holds a special place in her heart. Its themes of perseverance and self-discovery mirror her own journey. She finds inspiration in its message to “not give up and keep going,” a mantra she carries with her as she navigates her studies, work, and family life. Erika balances her responsibilities through careful organization, firmly believing that “what one starts has to be finished.”

Today, Erika feels proud of her progress. “I have lost a little of the fear of speaking,” she says. Her ability to communicate has significantly improved, allowing her to assist her daughters with their schoolwork and gain more confidence in daily interactions. Still, she dreams of reaching greater heights, hoping her improved English skills will eventually lead to better job opportunities.
When asked what advice she would offer to other students, Erika’s response is simple yet powerful: “Keep going, never give up.” For her, learning English is more than a skill—it’s a path to empowerment and a reminder that perseverance can break down any barrier.
Erika’s story highlights how education, determination, and support can create opportunities and transform lives in meaningful and lasting ways. At LVA, she’s building the skills to shape her future with confidence.

Julia

Julia, a Dominican Republic native, has been steadily advancing her English language skills through the Literacy Volunteers of America (LVA) program. Her journey to the United States began 14 years ago when her mother, after becoming a U.S. citizen, was finally able to sponsor Julia’s immigration. It was a long-awaited opportunity for Julia, who had been eager to reunite with her family. Now a proud U.S. citizen herself, Julia lives in New Jersey, where she is determined to fully master English and create new possibilities for her future.

Julia discovered LVA through a friend’s suggestion. “I wrote a text asking when she planned to start learning English,” Julia recalls. Although her friend couldn’t join, Julia eagerly enrolled in classes at the Bloomfield Library. Prior to this, her access to English lessons had been limited to occasional sessions in the Bronx. Despite having studied English as a young woman in the Dominican Republic, she struggled to practice speaking and listening after moving to the U.S. The supportive environment at LVA has been instrumental in helping Julia focus on these vital skills.

For Julia, learning English has always been more than a practical necessity—it has been a lifelong goal. “I wanted to prepare for life in a new country,” she explains. At first, her limited proficiency restricted her to jobs serving Spanish-speaking clients. Now a homemaker, Julia dreams of using her improving language skills to re-enter the workforce and eventually start a home-based business. “I want to be ready for opportunities, especially as my husband nears retirement,” she shares.

Her progress at LVA has been significant, particularly in grammar, though Julia admits there’s more to learn. “Sometimes when teachers speak, I don’t understand everything,” she says with a laugh. “But they help me, and I always try to say what I need.” These experiences have encouraged her to continue improving her speaking and listening skills.

Julia’s faith and family remain her greatest sources of motivation. Her favorite book, the Bible, reflects her commitment to both spiritual and personal growth. A lifelong learner, she has pursued education in fashion design and pastry-making, skills she hopes to one day put to use. As her husband approaches retirement, Julia is focused on building a sustainable future for her family.
When asked for advice, Julia offers a simple but heartfelt message: “Yes, you can. It takes effort and interest because English is the official language here, and we need it to navigate life.”

Her journey reflects the profound impact of perseverance and education, showing that with dedication, it is possible to build a brighter future in any circumstance.

John

John, a native of Trinidad and Tobago, came to the United States 13 years ago, initially planning to stay for a vacation. However, he quickly fell in love with the country and decided to make it his home. While John spoke English, he realized that his reading and writing skills needed improvement. Encouraged by his wife, he took the leap and joined Literacy Volunteers of America (LVA), where he embarked on a transformative educational journey that would ultimately change his life in ways he hadn’t imagined.

"I wanted to educate myself and be able to read and write properly," John shared. He has been dedicated to improving his English skills through the LVA program for three years now, and the progress he’s made is remarkable. John’s confidence has soared, especially when it comes to speaking and understanding English, which he feels has improved "1000 percent." No longer intimidated by conversations or public speaking, he now feels comfortable engaging with others.

Much of John’s success, he says, is thanks to his tutor, Wendy Sobelman. "I owe all that I have learned to her," he said, expressing deep gratitude for her unwavering support and encouragement. Her passion for teaching has made an enormous impact on his life, boosting his confidence and helping him overcome the challenges of literacy. In addition to Miss Wendy, John is thankful for his wife’s ongoing encouragement and the patience shown by all the LVA tutors who have worked with him.

One of John's proudest moments came when he received an award from LVA, a recognition of his hard work and dedication. "It was my biggest accomplishment," John said, reflecting on the long journey from feeling embarrassed about his struggles with literacy to being honored for his perseverance. Although there were moments when he felt like giving up, John pushed through, gradually overcoming his fear of being judged. That, in turn, allowed him to focus on learning and building his skills.

Learning English has done more than just improve John’s communication skills—it has opened doors for him. "I was able to get a better-paying job," he explained, and he now feels more empowered to handle everyday tasks, like filling out forms at the doctor’s office or the DMV. His love of history, especially his favorite book, *Benjamin Franklin: An American Life*, continues to inspire him to keep learning and striving for more.

Looking ahead, John’s ultimate goal is to earn his GED and use his experience to help others facing similar challenges. He dreams of writing a book about his learning journey, hoping to inspire others to pursue their own educational goals. His advice is clear: "Never give up. Perseverance wins."

John’s story serves as a powerful reminder that it’s never too late to learn. With the right support and determination, personal growth and transformation are always within reach.

Herard

Originally from Haiti, Herard arrived in the United States less than a year ago, on October 21. His journey to America was simple in logistics—he boarded a plane from the capital of his home country. However, the challenges that awaited him in a new land were far more complex. From the moment he arrived, he knew learning English would be crucial, not just for day-to-day survival but for building a new life. With the help of his aunt and uncle, he found his way to the Literacy Volunteers of America (LVA) through a local library, where he began his journey toward mastering English.

Education had always been important to Herard. In Haiti, he graduated from high school and completed a year of college, where he was studying medicine. Upon arriving in the U.S., learning English became his top priority. He had started learning English back in middle school and continued through high school and into his first year of college, even taking summer classes at the American University of the Caribbean. Despite this foundation, he knew there was much more to learn. Over the past year, with the support of LVA, Herard has seen his skills improve significantly, particularly in vocabulary and pronunciation. Yet, he is determined to go even further, especially as he dreams of working in the medical field, his true passion.

One of Herard’s favorite books is Gouverneur de la Rosée, a Haitian novel that has had a lasting impact on him. The book’s message of perseverance in the face of difficult circumstances resonates deeply with him. It serves as a reminder to never give up, a lesson he has lived himself. In 11th grade, he faced a major challenge when he had to switch schools unexpectedly. The transition to a new environment was difficult, especially during such a critical year. However, through determination and hard work, he adapted to his new surroundings and ultimately excelled, earning top marks at his new school.

His journey with LVA has been transformative. His tutors have played a key role, working with him on speaking, listening, reading, and writing. They helped him push past his fear of making mistakes, a hurdle that once held him back from fully engaging with others. One of the most unforgettable moments in his English-learning journey was when he realized he was no longer afraid to speak. He gained the confidence to express his thoughts through consistent practice and support, even when errors were inevitable.

For others learning English, Herard has simple yet powerful advice: “Keep going.” He believes that with persistence and discipline, success will follow. As for his future, he dreams of continuing his path in the medical field and one day becoming a surgeon. It’s an ambitious goal, but one he believes he can achieve step by step.

Jorge

Born in Colombia and raised in Venezuela, Jorge built a career in Statistics and Data Analysis. However, as Venezuela’s economic crisis worsened, he sought opportunities abroad.

In February 2017, Jorge arrived in the U.S. with the intention of staying only temporarily. Despite taking an English course in New York, he returned to Venezuela in August 2017. But the economic decline continued, prompting his return to the U.S. on October 25, 2019, this time with plans to settle permanently.

The transition was challenging, especially given the language barrier. Initially, Jorge struggled to balance work and English studies. His breakthrough came when he reconnected with Professor Marisol through Literacy Volunteers of Essex and Passaic Counties (LVA). “Learning English was crucial for my professional development and for supporting my family,” Jorge says.

At LVA, Jorge found renewed motivation. Although he had some background in English from high school, his proficiency was limited by Venezuela’s predominantly Spanish-speaking environment. His commitment to mastering English became central to his new life in the U.S.

Balancing his studies with work as a Lyft driver and an Amazon Flex delivery driver, Jorge found practical ways to improve his English. These roles required him to communicate constantly in English, providing him with real-world practice. While he has made considerable progress in reading comprehension, he continues to work on his listening and pronunciation skills.

One significant challenge Jorge faced was a job interview for a supervisor position. Despite his qualifications, his limited English proficiency hindered his chances. “That experience was a tough lesson, but it only strengthened my determination to improve,” he reflects.

Jorge’s perseverance has led to notable achievements. He successfully communicated with engineers and supervisors in his previous role despite his language limitations. This accomplishment, combined with his wife's and LVA's support, highlights his dedication to overcoming barriers.

Jorge dreams of pursuing a career as a Data Analyst or Statistician. His English skills impeded his previous attempt at a Data Science Specialization, but he views this as a stepping stone rather than a setback. “Improving my English is essential to achieving my career goals,” he says.

Jorge’s story underscores the power of determination and the impact of dedicated support in overcoming challenges. His journey with LVA is a testament to how mastering a new language can open doors and transform lives. Through his continued efforts and commitment, Jorge is paving the way toward a brighter future, demonstrating that achieving one's goals is possible and within reach with hard work and perseverance.

Francisco

Francisco’s story begins in Venezuela, where he was born and raised. He grew up speaking Spanish, but his journey to the United States in 2021 necessitated learning English.

His journey to America was arduous. Francisco faced numerous hardships and, upon arrival, sought political asylum. One of the most harrowing challenges Francisco faced was being incarcerated for three months upon arriving in the U.S. This period tested his faith, tolerance, and self-confidence. Yet, it also solidified his gratitude for being alive and his resolve to build a better future.

His first steps towards integrating into his new home started with a simple inquiry at the Bloomfield Library, where he discovered Literacy Volunteers of America (LVA). Understanding the importance of English in his new country, Francisco was motivated to learn. “If I know English, I can communicate, work, and socialize with most of the population. It will help me get a better job and be successful in my future goals,” he shared.

Since starting his classes in October last year, Francisco has spent nine months improving his language skills. While he feels his vocabulary has expanded, he acknowledges that mastering grammar and speaking fluently is a journey still in progress.

Francisco’s determination is evident in his choice of reading material. He is currently engrossed in a book by Carlos Devis, “Un Inmueble al Año No Hace Daño,” which offers strategies for investing in real estate. Francisco’s aspiration to become a successful real estate investor fuels his dedication to learning English, as he hopes to apply these strategies in his future career.

Education was not new to Francisco. In Venezuela, he attended school and later community college, where he earned a degree in environmental science. However, the real test of his resilience came when he used his basic English skills to help a friend secure a job as a mechanic. “It was rewarding because I never imagined translating and thinking that with my basic English, I was making a difference in someone else’s life. To me, that is priceless,” Francisco recalled.

The support from his English classes and tutors has been invaluable. “The teachers have so much tolerance; they come prepared and ready to teach,” he said. Despite setbacks, like a work accident, Francisco’s wife has been his biggest supporter, helping him stay motivated and focused.

Francisco's story is, as that of many of our students, one of resilience, perseverance, and the steady belief that with the right support and determination, anyone can achieve their dreams. Through Literacy Volunteers of America, he has not only learned a new language but also found a community that believes in his potential.