Vulnerable community members become capable through Central Vt. Adult Basic Education programs — Waterbury Roundabout

This week marks Adult Education and Literacy Week

Central Vermont Adult Basic Education celebrates its students

September 18-22 is recognized as Adult Education and Literacy Week in Vermont and across the nation. Central Vermont Adult Basic Education (CVABE) takes this opportunity to honor the 450 students it will serve this year, as well as the tens of thousands it has supported over the past 58 years.

Adult learners come from all walks of life, including your friends, neighbors, and service professionals you encounter daily. They all share a common goal: to acquire the skills and knowledge that will improve their lives and open doors in their families, communities, careers, and further education.

The importance of addressing vulnerable populations

In recent news, there has been a focus on “vulnerable populations” – groups that are at higher risk of dropping out of school, experiencing unemployment, poor health outcomes, incarceration, and poverty. Numerous government programs have been established to help these populations enter the workforce and overcome vulnerability. CVABE is proud to have been at the forefront of providing services and essential assets to vulnerable populations for nearly six decades.

CVABE’s student body consists of 39% Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) individuals, with over 51% having at least one disability. These demographics statistically face the highest risk of dropping out of school and living in poverty. In comparison, Vermont as a whole has a BIPOC population of about 6.2% and a disability rate of 14.8%. Additionally, over 100 CVABE students are English language learners who have sought refuge in the United States to escape war, persecution, and poverty. The majority of CVABE students belong to vulnerable populations, with almost all living below the poverty line.

Addressing the statistics and celebrating successes

The statistics surrounding these populations are stark. Sixty-six percent of CVABE students do not possess a high school credential, and 43% come to CVABE unemployed.

However, CVABE’s successes are equally significant. Last year, 54 students earned a high school credential, 21 pursued further education, 310 improved their work readiness, and 33 secured employment. CVABE continues to provide tangible assets that transform lives for our most vulnerable populations.

Fostering hope and self-worth

A common theme among vulnerable populations is a lack of hope and low self-worth, often stemming from generational or cultural factors. While CVABE takes pride in its statistical outcomes, the true motivation lies in witnessing students change their mindsets. As Meegan, a former student, expressed: “For so long, my mentality had been that because I had learning disabilities, I couldn’t learn… At CVABE, I learned how to learn.” Meegan obtained her GED, achieved a rigorous personal trainer certification, and realized her dreams. Each student gains perhaps the most important asset: hope!

Adult education and literacy for all

Adult education and literacy at CVABE are not limited to vulnerable populations. The programs are open to anyone seeking to enhance their skills and advance in life. CVABE can assist individuals aged 16 and above who are out of school and looking to acquire new skills. This includes individuals changing careers and in need of computer or email skills, as well as parents who wish to return to college but require skill refresher courses. CVABE also offers a new Workforce Development program that provides specific certifications in high-demand areas such as customer service, technology, and paraprofessionals.

Expressing gratitude and extending an invitation

During this Adult Education and Literacy Week, CVABE expresses gratitude and honors its students for allowing the organization to provide essential assets. CVABE also thanks its 74 volunteers for contributing over 3,000 hours of service and acknowledges the support of its donors in assisting students’ efforts.

Lastly, CVABE invites the community in Washington, Orange, and Lamoille counties to reach out and discover how the organization can help them progress.

All services provided by CVABE are free and confidential. For more information on programs or to volunteer, please call 802-476-4588 or email info@cvabe.org.

Brian Kravitz is the Development and Outreach Director for Central Vermont Adult Basic Education, which has been offering free adult education and literacy services to out-of-school adults aged 16 and above in Washington, Orange, and Lamoille counties for 58 years. Programs include literacy to high school levels, English language learning/citizenship, high school credentialing, and career and college readiness.

SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

Analysis

1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?

The SDGs that are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article are:

– SDG 4: Quality Education

– SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth

– SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities

2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?

Based on the article’s content, the specific targets under the identified SDGs are:

– Target 4.1: Ensuring completion of free, equitable, and quality primary and secondary education.

– Target 4.3: Ensuring equal access to affordable and quality technical, vocational, and tertiary education.

– Target 4.4: Increasing the number of youth and adults with relevant skills for employment.

– Target 8.5: Achieving full and productive employment and decent work for all.

– Target 8.6: Reducing the proportion of youth not in employment, education, or training.

– Target 10.2: Promoting social, economic, and political inclusion for all.

– Target 10.3: Ensuring equal opportunity and reducing inequalities of outcome.

3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?

Yes, there are indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets. These indicators include:

– Indicator 4.1.1: Proportion of children and young people achieving minimum proficiency in reading and mathematics.

– Indicator 4.3.1: Participation rate of youth and adults in formal and non-formal education and training.

– Indicator 4.4.1: Proportion of youth and adults with ICT skills.

– Indicator 8.5.1: Average hourly earnings of female and male employees.

– Indicator 8.6.1: Proportion of youth not in education, employment, or training.

– Indicator 10.2.1: Proportion of people living below 50 percent of median income.

– Indicator 10.3.1: Proportion of population reporting discrimination or harassment.

These indicators can be used to track progress towards the targets and assess the effectiveness of the programs and services provided by Central Vermont Adult Basic Education.

SDGs, Targets, and Indicators