Adult Literacy Program at Redlands library changes lives of learners, volunteers
Adult Literacy Program at Redlands library changes lives of learners, volunteers Redlands Daily Facts
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Adult Literacy Program at AK Smiley Public Library
By the Adult Literacy Team | Contributing Columnist
The Redlands Adult Literacy Program relies on its volunteers to provide one-on-one tutoring to adults interested in improving their reading and writing. Literacy volunteers also support computer classes, family literacy programs, book clubs, and other activities that help adult learners reach their literacy goals.
Every volunteer has a unique story about working in adult literacy, and many talk about the joy that comes when they help adults learn a new skill. The following stories are examples of two tutors whose lives have been deeply rewarded by improving the lives of learners through literacy.
Sharon Regalado: A Lifelong Teacher
Sharon Regalado is a former elementary school teacher who has volunteered with the Redlands Adult Literacy Program since 2012. When she retired, she missed teaching, but the adult literacy program has filled that gap in her life. It meets her need to help others further their education.
“It is exciting to watch a woman who is brave enough to admit she needs help, come to the library to get that help and then make progress,” Sharon said. Several of the adults Sharon has supported over the years have gone on to get jobs or enroll in college. When one graduates from the program, Sharon starts over with a new learner. She enjoys discovering their learning style, finding suitable activities, and helping them become the people they want to be. Sharon loves tutoring and considers herself a lifelong teacher.
Grace Russell: Empowering Through Literacy
Grace Russell is another tutor in the Adult Literacy Program. Grace is a retired human resources specialist, who joined the program six months ago. She is enjoying the experience of one-on-one tutoring. Recently, Grace learned that her adult learner had difficulty reading street signs while driving. The learner said she used to “drive blind” because she didn’t understand what the street signs said. The learner went on to explain that, since she began working with Grace, she’s learned how to read and is now able to understand street signs and navigate her way through town. The street signs, in the learner’s words, are “coming alive” because she can read them and drive to new places.
Both these stories demonstrate the real-life impact of helping adults improve their reading and writing skills. Adult learners work with tutors, so they can develop the literacy skills that are so necessary in our world to work, to raise a family, and to enjoy the opportunities that surround us.
Get Involved
If you would like to learn more about volunteering with the Redlands Adult Literacy Program, you are invited to the next tutor orientation and training session on Saturday, April 6 at the A. K. Smiley Public Library Assembly Room. To reserve your place, stop by A. K. Smiley Public Library, 125 W. Vine Street to indicate your interest, or contact one of the adult literacy staff by calling 909-798-7565 or emailing literacy@akspl.org. The orientation will begin at 9 a.m. and training will be completed by 2 p.m. All services and materials are free.
Spread the Word
You are also invited to share this information. Perhaps you know an adult who would benefit from adult literacy services. Please encourage them to contact the adult literacy staff. You could be helping them to change their lives.
Adult Literacy Team at A.K. Smiley Public Library, 125 W. Vine St., Redlands.
SDGs, Targets, and Indicators
| SDGs | Targets | Indicators |
|---|---|---|
| SDG 4: Quality Education | 4.6 By 2030, ensure that all youth and a substantial proportion of adults, both men and women, achieve literacy and numeracy. | The article discusses the Redlands Adult Literacy Program, which provides one-on-one tutoring to adults interested in improving their reading and writing skills. The program helps adults develop the literacy skills necessary for work, family life, and enjoying opportunities. This aligns with the target of ensuring that a substantial proportion of adults achieve literacy. |
| SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth | 8.6 By 2020, substantially reduce the proportion of youth not in employment, education or training. | The article mentions that several adults supported by the program have gone on to get jobs or enroll in college. This indicates progress towards reducing the proportion of youth not in employment or education. |
| SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities | 10.7 Facilitate orderly, safe, regular and responsible migration and mobility of people, including through the implementation of planned and well-managed migration policies. | The article does not explicitly mention migration or mobility. However, by improving the literacy skills of adults, the program may contribute to facilitating their integration into society and potentially improving their mobility and opportunities. |
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Source: redlandsdailyfacts.com
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