Happy Sunday! The idiom “here today, gone tomorrow” reminds us that trends or fads lose their popularity, people and relationship come and go, and that life in general is a bit uncertain. A couple of weeks ago, Literacy Volunteers of Laredo had its last “Recognition Event.” They honored their students’ achievements, the volunteer tutor’s commitment, the support of their donors and the leadership of their board.
Literacy Volunteers of Laredo (LVL) is officially dissolving as a non-profit organization in our community. For about forty years, they have provided free literacy courses to adults with limited reading, writing, and/or English skills. They also offered courses for basic computer skills, creative writing, conversational English and civic courses for those seeking U.S. citizenship. All classes are coordinated by volunteer teachers. People who give of their time, talent, and expertise to help enrich others.
My thanks to Board President Leticia Rios Spillane, Board Secretary Cecilia Hodges and all the LVL Board of Directors for their
Happy Sunday! The idiom “here today, gone tomorrow” reminds us that trends or fads lose their popularity, people and relationship come and go, and that life in general is a bit uncertain. A couple of weeks ago, Literacy Volunteers of Laredo had its last “Recognition Event.” They honored their students’ achievements, the volunteer tutor’s commitment, the support of their donors and the leadership of their board.
Literacy Volunteers of Laredo (LVL) is officially dissolving as a non-profit organization in our community. For about forty years, they have provided free literacy courses to adults with limited reading, writing, and/or English skills. They also offered courses for basic computer skills, creative writing, conversational English and civic courses for those seeking U.S. citizenship. All classes are coordinated by volunteer teachers. People who give of their time, talent, and expertise to help enrich others.
My thanks to Board President Leticia Rios Spillane, Board Secretary Cecilia Hodges and all the LVL Board of Directors for their dedication to keep the agency’s mission moving forward. For over a year, they have attempted to maintain their agency above water. Sacrificing their time, finances and jobs so LVL would remain open and providing services to help their students.
Their Board members included: Leticia Spillane (President), Mary Provence (Vice President), Cecilia Hodges (Secretary), Sandra Barrera (Co-Treasurer), Enriqueta Benavides (Co-Treasurer), Guillermo Benavides, Dr. Alicia Carrillo, Raj Chekuri, Hugo Garcia, Mary Lou Lopez and Victor D. Trevino Jr.
Last year, Ms. Spillane reached out to United Way of Laredo President Carolyn M. Schmies, as she had also been a past president for LVL. The United Way of Laredo Board agreed that the services LVL provided were vital to our community. Both organizations came to a mutual agreement. Ms. Schmies was passionate about the Literacy Program, her students and United Way. Although Ms. Schmies passed away in December, the United Way of Laredo Board remains committed to continuing to offer the Literacy Classes as a program service. Ms. Gloria E. Vasquez was recently hired as the Program Coordinator for United Way of Laredo.
Ms. Vasquez shared, “The LVL Recognition Ceremony was such a wonderful event. The attendees signed in as students, tutors, volunteers, sponsors or guests. All attendees were assigned to a designated seating area so that the distribution of certificates, plaques, or recognitions flowed smoothly. Everyone was wearing their Sunday best. Various group pictures were taken and shared before, during, and after the event. The invited family members and friends sat in their seats, waiting for their LVL student and family member to go in front of the audience to share in their achievement and shining moment.”
She added, “The students looked excited and pleased to have met their class goals and to be receiving a certificate for their participation. A few of them deserved extra recognition for having perfect attendance. This is important to acknowledge, as some of these students had to make sacrifices in order to attend class without fail. The student participants each have work and family obligations, yet strive to make a better life for themselves and their families.
dedication to keep the agency’s mission moving forward. For over a year, they have attempted to maintain their agency above water. Sacrificing their time, finances and jobs so LVL would remain open and providing services to help their students.
Their Board members included: Leticia Spillane (President), Mary Provence (Vice President), Cecilia Hodges (Secretary), Sandra Barrera (Co-Treasurer), Enriqueta Benavides (Co-Treasurer), Guillermo Benavides, Dr. Alicia Carrillo, Raj Chekuri, Hugo Garcia, Mary Lou Lopez and Victor D. Trevino Jr.
Last year, Ms. Spillane reached out to United Way of Laredo President Carolyn M. Schmies, as she had also been a past president for LVL. The United Way of Laredo Board agreed that the services LVL provided were vital to our community. Both organizations came to a mutual agreement. Ms. Schmies was passionate about the Literacy Program, her students and United Way. Although Ms. Schmies passed away in December, the United Way of Laredo Board remains committed to continuing to offer the Literacy Classes as a program service. Ms. Gloria E. Vasquez was recently hired as the Program Coordinator for United Way of Laredo.
This is also acknowledged by the tutors, who nominate one student for either most improved, or outstanding achievement awards. One student gets recognized as Student of the Year for his/her dedication and progress in meeting their goals. This year’s nominee was Jose Maya from Leticia Spillane’s Citizenship class.”
Ms. Vasquez noted, “The tutors are recognized for making sacrifices, as well. One volunteer tutor gets recognized as Tutor-of-the-Year, for his/her commitment and dedication. Volunteers are the heart of the organization. Without the tutors, there would not be a program. This year’s nominee was Jill Davidson, English as a Second Language (ESL) tutor. Ms. Davidson has been with the LVL program since 2015. She has shared so much of her time and knowledge to hundreds of students.”
She continued, “The sponsors also get recognized for their contributions to the program. These contributions are incredibly valuable to help us succeed. The City of Laredo Public Library allows the use of classroom space at their various locations. Funding entities supply materials, operational assistance, and other resources to help prepare students for their classes. Without this support, the program would be unable to provide the service. Our thanks for their continued support!”
Ms. Vasquez closed by stating, “This past May’s LVL Annual Recognition Ceremony event was enjoyed by all attendees. I am excited about the future and look forward to continue working with the students, tutors and sponsors through the United Way of Laredo – ProLiteracy of South Texas program.”
United Way is excited to offer the literacy classes as a new program service. We are extremely grateful to Ms. Spillane, Ms. Hodges, the students, tutors, sponsors and City of Laredo Public Library leadership (Ms. Danielle Burns) who are helping to ensure a smooth transition. We are also excited to work with our UWL ProLiteracy of South Texas Advisory Board members: William B. Green, Dr. Sylvia Rios, Dr. James O’Meara, Ysela M. Arechiga and Jonathan P. Ruiz.
If you are interested in volunteering as a tutor or are wanting to sign up for classes in the fall, please email gloria@unitedwaylaredo.org.
SOUTH TEXAS BLOOD & TISSUE BLOOD DRIVE: BATTLE OF THE BADGES
Everyone is invited to come out and support the City of Laredo Fire Department Blood Drive and the City of Laredo Police Department Blood Drive.
On Monday, June 1st from 10am-4pm. It will be at the City of Laredo Fire Department Conference Room located at 616 E. Del Mar Blvd. Contact Herman Martinez at hmartinez2@cilaredo.tx.us for more information or to schedule your appointment.
On Tuesday, June 2nd from 10am-4pm. It will be at the City of Laredo Police Department located at 4712 Maher (Lobby Area). Contact Ms. Leticia Garcia at lgarcia@ci.laredo.tx.us for more information or to schedule your appointment.
R.B. COWL REHABILITATION CENTER: CHILDREN’S ORTHOPEDIC CLINIC
Ruthe B. Cowl Rehabilitation Center will be hosting their monthly Children’s Orthopedic Clinic on Thursday, June 4th. Registration is required. To schedule an appointment, call 956.722.2431.
AREA HEALTH EDUCATION CENTER (AHEC): MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS
Everyone is invited to attend AHEC’s mental health awareness virtual seminar with guest speaker, Myrthala de Alejo, MA, LPC, DPC. The session is scheduled for Friday, June 5th from 1:30 pm to 2:30 pm. Participants will earn one Knowledge Contact Hour. For more information call 956.712.0037.
MERCY MINISTRIES: BINGO MADNESS
Come join the Bingo Madness and support the Mercy Clinic. Their 5th Annual Bingo will be held on Sunday, June 7th at the Laredo College Maravillo Gym located on West End Washington Street. Doors open at 11am with 2 early bird specials at Noon. The regular bingo starts at 1pm. Pre-sale tickets are $30 for 10 games. On the day of the event, ticket price will be $35. There will be food, door prizes and a raffle. For more information, contact Diana Granados at 956.721.7408 or diana.granados@mercy.net.
SACRED HEART CHILDREN’S HOME: CONSECRATION TO THE SACRED HEART OF JESUS
The Servants of the Sacred Heart of Jesus invite the community to join them with their festivities for the Sacred Heart of Jesus. Novena (Prayer) at 7:00 pm every night from Wednesday, June 3rd to Thursday, June 11th at the Children’s Home. The Consecration will be on Friday, June 12th at 7:30 pm at the Children’s Home. For more information 956.691.8746
IMAGINARIUM OF SOUTH TEXAS: GALA NIGHT HONORING DR. RICARDO CIGARROA & THE HONORABLE ALYSSA CIGARROA
The Gala is scheduled for Thursday, June 11th from 6:30-10:30 pm at Paseo Real Reception Hall. For more information, please call 956.728.0404.
IMAGINARIUM OF SOUTH TEXAS: LIGHT UP THE NIGHT
Join us for the AEP Free Family Night on Friday, June 12th from 6-9 pm at the Imaginarium located the main campus of Laredo College (West End Washington Street) Building P-149. For more information, please call 956.728.0404.
UNITED WAY OF LAREDO, INC.: MAIN EVENT SPIRIT NIGHT FOR UNITED WAY
Come join the fun and support a great cause on Thursday, June 18th from 5 – 8 pm at the Main Event at Mall Del Norte. 20% of all sales will be donated to United Way of Laredo for all activities, video games, food, gift cards and non-alcoholic beverage purchases. Just remember to place your itemized receipt in the “box by the Bowling Desk.” For more information, call 956.723.9113.
If you have a upcoming community event or information on a nonprofit 501(c)(3) charitable organization you would like to share, please email at 956cuidandolaredo@gmail.com.
Ms. Vasquez shared, “The LVL Recognition Ceremony was such a wonderful event. The attendees signed in as students, tutors, volunteers, sponsors or guests. All attendees were assigned to a designated seating area so that the distribution of certificates, plaques, or recognitions flowed smoothly. Everyone was wearing their Sunday best. Various group pictures were taken and shared before, during, and after the event. The invited family members and friends sat in their seats, waiting for their LVL student and family member to go in front of the audience to share in their achievement and shining moment.”
She added, “The students looked excited and pleased to have met their class goals and to be receiving a certificate for their participation. A few of them deserved extra recognition for having perfect attendance. This is important to acknowledge, as some of these students had to make sacrifices in order to attend class without fail. The student participants each have work and family obligations, yet strive to make a better life for themselves and their families.
This is also acknowledged by the tutors, who nominate one student for either most improved, or outstanding achievement awards. One student gets recognized as Student of the Year for his/her dedication and progress in meeting their goals. This year’s nominee was Jose Maya from Leticia Spillane’s Citizenship class.”
Ms. Vasquez noted, “The tutors are recognized for making sacrifices, as well. One volunteer tutor gets recognized as Tutor-of-the-Year, for his/her commitment and dedication. Volunteers are the heart of the organization. Without the tutors, there would not be a program. This year’s nominee was Jill Davidson, English as a Second Language (ESL) tutor. Ms. Davidson has been with the LVL program since 2015. She has shared so much of her time and knowledge to hundreds of students.”
She continued, “The sponsors also get recognized for their contributions to the program. These contributions are incredibly valuable to help us succeed. The City of Laredo Public Library allows the use of classroom space at their various locations. Funding entities supply materials, operational assistance, and other resources to help prepare students for their classes. Without this support, the program would be unable to provide the service. Our thanks for their continued support!”
Ms. Vasquez closed by stating, “This past May’s LVL Annual Recognition Ceremony event was enjoyed by all attendees. I am excited about the future and look forward to continue working with the students, tutors and sponsors through the United Way of Laredo – ProLiteracy of South Texas program.”
United Way is excited to offer the literacy classes as a new program service. We are extremely grateful to Ms. Spillane, Ms. Hodges, the students, tutors, sponsors and City of Laredo Public Library leadership (Ms. Danielle Burns) who are helping to ensure a smooth transition. We are also excited to work with our UWL ProLiteracy of South Texas Advisory Board members: William B. Green, Dr. Sylvia Rios, Dr. James O’Meara, Ysela M. Arechiga and Jonathan P. Ruiz.
If you are interested in volunteering as a tutor or are wanting to sign up for classes in the fall, please email gloria@unitedwaylaredo.org.
SOUTH TEXAS BLOOD & TISSUE BLOOD DRIVE: BATTLE OF THE BADGES
Everyone is invited to come out and support the City of Laredo Fire Department Blood Drive and the City of Laredo Police Department Blood Drive.
On Monday, June 1st from 10am-4pm. It will be at the City of Laredo Fire Department Conference Room located at 616 E. Del Mar Blvd. Contact Herman Martinez at hmartinez2@cilaredo.tx.us for more information or to schedule your appointment.
On Tuesday, June 2nd from 10am-4pm. It will be at the City of Laredo Police Department located at 4712 Maher (Lobby Area). Contact Ms. Leticia Garcia at lgarcia@ci.laredo.tx.us for more information or to schedule your appointment.
R.B. COWL REHABILITATION CENTER: CHILDREN’S ORTHOPEDIC CLINIC
Ruthe B. Cowl Rehabilitation Center will be hosting their monthly Children’s Orthopedic Clinic on Thursday, June 4th. Registration is required. To schedule an appointment, call 956.722.2431.
AREA HEALTH EDUCATION CENTER (AHEC): MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS
Everyone is invited to attend AHEC’s mental health awareness virtual seminar with guest speaker, Myrthala de Alejo, MA, LPC, DPC. The session is scheduled for Friday, June 5th from 1:30 pm to 2:30 pm. Participants will earn one Knowledge Contact Hour. For more information call 956.712.0037.
MERCY MINISTRIES: BINGO MADNESS
Come join the Bingo Madness and support the Mercy Clinic. Their 5th Annual Bingo will be held on Sunday, June 7th at the Laredo College Maravillo Gym located on West End Washington Street. Doors open at 11am with 2 early bird specials at Noon. The regular bingo starts at 1pm. Pre-sale tickets are $30 for 10 games. On the day of the event, ticket price will be $35. There will be food, door prizes and a raffle. For more information, contact Diana Granados at 956.721.7408 or diana.granados@mercy.net.
SACRED HEART CHILDREN’S HOME: CONSECRATION TO THE SACRED HEART OF JESUS
The Servants of the Sacred Heart of Jesus invite the community to join them with their festivities for the Sacred Heart of Jesus. Novena (Prayer) at 7:00 pm every night from Wednesday, June 3rd to Thursday, June 11th at the Children’s Home. The Consecration will be on Friday, June 12th at 7:30 pm at the Children’s Home. For more information 956.691.8746
IMAGINARIUM OF SOUTH TEXAS: GALA NIGHT HONORING DR. RICARDO CIGARROA & THE HONORABLE ALYSSA CIGARROA
The Gala is scheduled for Thursday, June 11th from 6:30-10:30 pm at Paseo Real Reception Hall. For more information, please call 956.728.0404.
IMAGINARIUM OF SOUTH TEXAS: LIGHT UP THE NIGHT
Join us for the AEP Free Family Night on Friday, June 12th from 6-9 pm at the Imaginarium located the main campus of Laredo College (West End Washington Street) Building P-149. For more information, please call 956.728.0404.
UNITED WAY OF LAREDO, INC.: MAIN EVENT SPIRIT NIGHT FOR UNITED WAY
Come join the fun and support a great cause on Thursday, June 18th from 5 – 8 pm at the Main Event at Mall Del Norte. 20% of all sales will be donated to United Way of Laredo for all activities, video games, food, gift cards and non-alcoholic beverage purchases. Just remember to place your itemized receipt in the “box by the Bowling Desk.” For more information, call 956.723.9113.
If you have a upcoming community event or information on a nonprofit 501(c)(3) charitable organization you would like to share, please email at 956cuidandolaredo@gmail.com.
Peggy M. Duncan, United Way of Laredo
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