The Redlands Adult Literacy Program relies on its volunteers to provide one-on-one tutoring to adults who are 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 individual literacy goals. Every volunteer has a unique story about working in adult literacy, and many speak of the joy that comes when they help adults learn a new literacy skill that will be used in their work, personal, and/or family life. The following stories are examples of two tutors whose lives have been magically and deeply rewarded by improving the lives of learners through literacy.
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. Sharon said, “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.” 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 happily starts over with a new learner. She enjoys discovering their learning style, finding suitable activities, and helping them become the people that they want to be. Sharon loves tutoring and considers herself a teacher forever.
Grace Russell is another valued tutor in the Adult Literacy Program. Unlike Sharon, Grace does not have a background in teaching; she is a retired human resources specialist. Grace joined the program just six months ago and is enjoying the experience of one-on-one tutoring. Recently, Grace learned that her adult learner had had difficulty reading street signs as she was driving. In fact, 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 has 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 use this skill to drive to new places.
Both these stories demonstrate the real-life impact of helping adults improve their reading and writing. Adult learners work with tutors so that 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.
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, please stop by A.K. Smiley Public Library at 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 9:00 a.m. and training will be completed by 2:00 p.m. All services and materials are free.
You are also invited to share this information with others. Perhaps you know an adult who would benefit from adult literacy services. Please encourage them to contact the adult literacy staff. You will be helping them to change their lives!