Learning on the Go! With The Literacy
Project
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Who We Are and What We Do
An Introduction to The Literacy
Project
The Literacy Project (TLP) is a non-profit Adult Basic Education program providing free classes for adults and out-of-school youth seeking to improve their academic, work and life skills. Since 1984, The Literacy Project has been providing Adult Basic Education programs and opportunities that support area residents to engage meaningfully and equitably in the economic, social, cultural and political life of their communities. “What started in 1984 as a single classroom
in Greenfield has developed into a network of five community-based learning
centers,” says TLP Executive Director, Hollyn Green. “We are proud to
celebrate 20 years of adult learning and community building in western
Massachusetts.” The
Literacy Project provides free classes in adult basic education (reading,
writing, math, GED preparation and computer literacy) to adults and
out-of-school youth, through its Charboneau Learning Center in Greenfield,
North Quabbin Adult Education Center in Orange, and community learning
centers in Ware, Amherst and Northampton. The Literacy Project (TLP) provides
basic skills education and training to adults at five community learning
centers in western Massachusetts. A community-based non-profit formed
in 1984, The Literacy Project (TLP) covers a 1,100 square mile region,
serving Franklin and Hampshire counties and some towns in Hampden and
Worcester counties. Learning centers
are located in Greenfield, Orange, Northampton, Amherst and Ware. TLP serves over 500 students each year with
a staff of approximately 20. We believe that literacy and basic
education are the building blocks of democracy and community development. To participate fully as a
decision-maker at home, at work and in the community, adults need a range of
basic skills, including communication, conflict resolution and critical
thinking. In addition to teaching the
academic basics, we study community issues, discuss current events, and
provide opportunities for students to take action on issues of concern to us
all. Each student brings a unique history
and story. Most TLP students left high school without
graduating. For some students,
personal or family problems, illness, or drug abuse made it difficult to stay
in school. Others left to have
children or support families. Still
others found the social or educational environment of high school too
difficult to tolerate. Many
students overcome significant challenges and barriers to attend TLP classes. Some are homeless and living in shelters. Some have been court-ordered to obtain
their GED. Some are in recovery from
drug abuse or mental illness. Most
are struggling to survive economically.
A
growing number of students are youth. While we serve adults 16-65 and
older, in recent years 50% of our students were 14-24 years old. To meet the needs of youth, who bring
interests and learning styles that are distinct from those of older adults,
TLP is developing a youth program that incorporates academic, pre-employment
and life skills training. Most students are working towards
the GED, the high school equivalency exam. Students may
also be studying for professional certification, such as the Certified Nurses
Assistant Exam, preparing for college entry, or gaining job skills or
independent living skills. Some
attend classes for several months while others attend for several years. The length of participation depends on the
student’s goals, motivation, and entry level. Small classes, a varied schedule,
and plenty of individual attention help students meet their goals. We teach reading, writing, math, GED preparation,
computer literacy, creative writing, science, social studies, humanities and
the arts, leadership development and job training. Classes are free to any adult in the community, and the
curriculum is responsive to the needs of the individuals enrolled. Computer literacy training is a core
component of The Literacy Project’s curriculum. In many of the communities we serve, TLP is the only resource providing free computer literacy training to disadvantaged individuals. TLP integrates technology into classroom activities and provides introductory level computer training. The Community Leaders Program
provides opportunities for civic participation and community leadership. Through
hands-on, experiential trainings and community service projects, students
explore leadership skills and gain support in becoming more actively involved
in the community. The skills students
develop – in areas such as communication, conflict resolution, cooperative
group development, and group facilitation – build self-esteem and complement
their academic development. TLP depends on the generous
contributions of community volunteers to carry out these programs. Volunteer
Opportunities Available Approximately 70 volunteers contribute over 2,200
staffing hours each year, an in-kind contribution of almost $47,000. Beyond their significant contribution of
time, volunteers' diversity of experience, depth of knowledge, connections in
the community and enthusiasm for teaching and learning are invaluable
contributions. Volunteers work as tutors, teachers, curriculum developers,
technology experts, field trip coordinators, consultants, outreach assistants
and office assistants. Mission
Statement, Guiding Principles, and the Vision Statement of The
Literacy Project. |
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