Literacy Volunteers of America, Essex & Passaic Counties, NJ Inc.

August 2023

Volume 11, Issue 8

The Insider

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The Insider, the monthly newsletter of LVA, Essex & Passaic Counties, will keep you in the loop on all of the organization’s upcoming events.

NJALL has started a new series of videos that presents interviews with influential people in the history of adult education in New Jersey. In each episode, a guest shares their own path to working in adult education, reflects on important moments in their careers and shares their thoughts about the nature of adult education.

https://bit.ly/453os8U

Literacy Volunteers of America Essex & Passaic Counties

90 Broad Street, 2nd Floor, Bloomfield, NJ 07003
(973) 566-6200, ext. 217 or 225

195 Gregory Avenue, 2nd Floor, Passaic, NJ 07055
(973) 470-0039

Cristhian Barcelos        -Executive Director
                                           [email protected]
Jorge Chavez                 -Data Processing Coordinator
                                           [email protected]
Valeria Garrido             -Social Media & Newsletter Coordinator
                                           [email protected]
Cheryl Locastro            -Tutor Support Specialist & ESOL Instructor
                                           [email protected]
Marisol Ramirez           -Student Coordinator
                                           [email protected]

Greetings LVA family!

August brings a mix of last-minute vacation trips, and the excitement of getting ready for a new school year. As the program year continues, we are immensely grateful to count with the stories of courage and achievement from our students, and dedication and kindness from our amazing volunteers.

This month we are highlighting the story of Evangelina Medina, originally from Venezuela, who continues working hard to improve her future together with her English language skills.

And as each of you knows, we cannot do our work without tutors who so generously volunteer their time to help countless students year after year. This month, we introduce you to Olga Roberts, who has a passion for teaching and remarks on the importance of financially supporting programs like LVA so they can serve more students as the need is great.

If you are interested in exploring AI in the context of education, the International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE) has some resources you can explore by following this link: https://bit.ly/3YxOajp

Please remember you can always reach out if you are looking for a resource for your students, and don’t forget to explore the Resources section of our website where you can find a variety of links with access to professional development opportunities and lesson plans.

And finally, don't forget to connect with us on social media for more valuable tips and resources.

Thank you for being part of our incredible journey. Your dedication and commitment to transforming lives through education is truly remarkable. Let's continue to make a difference together!

Wishing you a fantastic August filled with warmth, growth, and countless moments of inspiration.

In the News

To view the following stories, copy and paste the highlighted website into an internet search bar.

“UNESCO: Evidence of Technology's Impact on Learning Is Mixed” Government Technology. https://bit.ly/47tvfuc

“Personal experience: how to speak English competently and confidently if you moved to the USA as an adult” NY Forum Daily. https://bit.ly/3rVMMuL

Evangelina is committed to her studies and wants to encourage others to pursue their passion as they work to improve their English skills. “The best is yet to come.”

Tutor Training Workshops

Online Training, by TBD
Platform: Zoom (sponsored by LNJ)
Wednesdays, 6 - 8 pm
September 6, 13, 20, 27, October 4, & 11, 2023

Online Training, by TBD
Platform: Zoom (sponsored by LNJ)
Wednesdays, 9:30 - 11:30 am
October 4, 11, 18, 25, November 1, & 8, 2023

Tutor Support Workshops

"How Understanding Personality Can Improve Your Tutoring." with, Stephanie Mazzeo-Caputo
Platform: Google Meet
Thursday, September 21, 2023, 11:00 am - 12:30 pm

Coffee Hour with Tutors

with Cheryl Locastro

Thursday, September 14, 2023 at 3pm (General in-person meeting)
Thursday, November 16, 2023 at 3pm (Themed in-person meeting)

http://www.lvaep.org/workshops.html

Getting to Know Us
Evangelina, LVA student
by Valeria Garrido

Hailing from Venezuela, Evangelina's journey to success in the United States is a testament to her commitment. Arriving on a tourist visa five years ago, she embarked on a transformative quest to master English, seamlessly integrating into the community and advancing her career.

Motivated to communicate effectively and engage fully in her new home, Evangelina meticulously researched language acquisition options, leading her to our ESOL program.

At LVA, Evangelina discovered a comprehensive ESOL curriculum supported by dedicated educators and coordinators who shared her growth-focused mindset. The program's holistic approach fueled her determination to succeed.

With an unwavering goal of community integration and professional growth, Evangelina committed herself to her studies, yielding tangible progress in language proficiency over two years. Acknowledging language learning's gradual nature, she diligently practiced, addressing areas like listening comprehension through innovative strategies, including immersing herself in English music and videos related to her passion for interior decoration. These efforts also aided her navigation through professional courses conducted in English, enriching her language journey.

With degrees in Human Resources Management and Education from Venezuela, Evangelina embraced opportunities in her adopted country. In the insurance field, where language proficiency is paramount, her unwavering determination culminated in a notable achievement – her first successful sale conducted entirely in English.

Despite challenges that often accompany the immigrant experience, Evangelina's dedication, focus, and determination have driven her beyond barriers. She believes hard work paves the way for immigrants to achieve their dreams, illustrating this through her journey.

Reflecting on her journey, she encourages fellow immigrants to embrace chances for growth and success. Organizations like LVA offer unwavering support and effective programs, providing a pathway to achievement.

In Evangelina's words, "The best is yet to come." Her accomplishments epitomize the American dream realized through education, determination, and an unyielding spirit. As she continues, Evangelina stands as an inspiring example of triumph over adversity, embodying the potential for success inherent in all immigrants aspiring to a brighter future.

Literacy opens a wide door to life. Help us keep that door open with your donation!

Thanks in large part to you, we are able to aid hundreds of students each year. Please continue your efforts to improve the lives of others by giving the gift of literacy. You can contribute by mailing us a check or through our website @:

http://www.lvaep.org/donate.html

“Mike Daniel Unpacks the Ramifications of Illiteracy in Working Adults Today”

The American Reporter

By Kyle Matthews, July 26, 2023

The ability to read and write is a fundamental skill that is necessary for success in today’s world. However, there are still many adults who struggle with illiteracy. Mike Daniel, South Carolina’s former Lieutenant Governor and lifelong literacy advocate, has witnessed firsthand the startling implications of illiteracy in working adults today.

South Carolina, like many states, has a significant problem with illiteracy among its adult population. According to data from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), the state ranks 41st in the nation for literacy rates among adults. As of 2018, the state’s literacy rate among adults aged 16 and older was 85%, meaning 15% of adults in the state are considered functionally illiterate.

The Importance of Literacy in the Workplace

Illiteracy in the workplace can have serious consequences, both for the employee and the employer. “In today’s economy, most jobs require some level of reading and writing skills,” says Mike Daniel. “Employees who struggle with literacy are often limited in their job options and have a harder time advancing in their careers.”

Not only can illiteracy limit job opportunities, but it can also lead to lower wages. “Many jobs that require reading and writing skills pay more than those that don’t,” explains Daniel. “Employees who struggle with literacy may find themselves stuck in lower-paying jobs.”

For the full story, copy and paste the following link into your favorite web browser address bar: https://bit.ly/3qoXFoE

Student Resources

Learning a new culture is more than studying a language. Tutoring is more than learning techniques. Our “Resources” webpage covers everything from legal matters, health care, & scholarships for immigrants, to professional development for tutors. Give us a look @: http://www.lvaep.org/students.html

Getting to Know Us
Olga Roberts, LVA Tutor
by Valeria Garrido

In the vibrant world of LVA of Essex & Passaic Counties, Olga Roberts stands out as a genuine and dedicated volunteer tutor, enriching the tapestry of learning and growth. Let's delve into her captivating journey.

Olga's connection with ESOL
volunteering at LVA and NCC began in 2018. Armed with a New School for Social Research certificate and a Bachelor of Arts in English from Rutgers University, Newark, Olga's professional path varied from real estate brokerage to the hustle of New York's advertising and public relations, with a stint as a restaurant worker adding to her diverse experiences.

Her story bears an international flavor, recounting her immigrant journey from England to New York City in 1964. Her English fluency bridged the gap in a family where Ukrainian was the primary language, highlighting the importance of language in uniting diverse cultures.

Olga's passion for teaching shines as she embarked on her LVA journey, volunteering to guide three language learners and later leading a class of thirty. Notably, she made a memorable connection with a Peruvian immigrant who, despite grueling 14-hour shifts as a cook, found solace and inspiration in Olga's class. Her resourcefulness led to engaging him with a short book about Mohammed Ali, triggering laughter over a story about Cassius Clay's first encounter with a girl.

Olga's classroom is a haven of laughter, courage, and camaraderie. She admires her students' unwavering kindness, humor, and courage, noting their resilience as immigrants. Her teaching ethos revolves around hard work and lightheartedness, fostering an upbeat outlook on life.

Discussing her impressions of LVA, Olga highlights the program's dedication and the pressing need for expanded funding to accommodate incoming immigrants. Her dedication echoes throughout the community, emphasizing the importance of support.

Beyond tutoring, Olga unveils a lesser-known facet—her time as a college student included catering gigs, where she found herself at an event for the legendary Rolling Stones, adding a unique twist to her story.

Olga Roberts stands as a relatable presence, interweaving language, culture, and determination into the fabric of everyday life, exemplifying LVA's mission of education and community.