Literacy Volunteers of Laredo
Established in 1986, Literacy Volunteers of Laredo’s (LVL) mission is to provide confidential student-centered instruction and assistance from trained volunteers. Their goal is to provide adults with limited reading, writing, and/or English proficiency skills at no cost to their clients.
Gloria Vasquez, Executive Director for the LVL, said “The program consists of staff who recruit, train, and match volunteer tutors with non-reading adults who need individualized basic reading. LVL also offers instruction for English as a second language (ESL). These classes are intended for those who are not native English speakers.”
Beatriz M. Garcia Fuentes is a student in the LVL adult literacy program. LVL is helping her to achieve her dreams. Beatriz first joined LVL to improve her English, but she now hopes to become a United States citizen. Beatriz enjoys the classes because, she is surrounded with people just like her trying to learn. “At first, I was afraid that people would laugh at me. I was embarrassed but, LVL has helped me to get closer to my dream” Beatriz said.
Vasquez shared that “Beatriz is so committed to achieving her goal that she has been recognized by her tutors for her perfect attendance.” While Beatriz’s goal is to become a US citizen, her dream is to be able to vote. Vasquez believes that the classes have increased Beatriz’s self-esteem. “She has pride in her abilities and her determination has encouraged her to move forward and succeed,” said Vasquez.
Ms. Vasquez who has been with the organization for more than 10 years, has seen firsthand the great work that is accomplished by the organization. She is extremely grateful for all of the dedicated volunteers who tutor and serve on the organization’s board of directors. Vasquez said, “It is a blessing to see the smiles on our participant’s faces when they pass their citizenship test or receive their GED.”
With your support, United Way is able to provide financial resources to agencies like Literacy Volunteers of Laredo to ensure they are able to provide their literacy assistance programs and services to those in need. Vasquez noted, “It’s amazing how vital it is to be able to read something as simple as a medicine prescription.” For more information on how you can support the United Way of Laredo or any of their network of agencies contact the United Way at uwlaredo@unitedwaylaredo.org or visit their website at www.unitedwaylaredo.org If you are in need of community resources and are not sure where to turn dial 2-1-1 for information on programs and services in available in our community.
