In recognition that literacy is a human right, Literacy Volunteers of Greater Waterbury (LVGW) will host Volunteer Orientations so that local residents can learn how they can help increase the adult literacy rate in our communities. In addition, LVGW will spotlight International Literacy Day on Thursday, September 8th during fundraisers at The Grotto and Mrs. G, 634 Watertown Avenue, Waterbury from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. or at Dominic’s & Vinnie’s Pizza, 505 Wolcott Street, Waterbury from 4 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Guests can dine in or take out, and a portion of the proceeds will benefit LVGW. 2016 marks the 50th anniversary of International Literacy Day, which reminds us that reading and writing skills remain an elusive target for nearly 800 million adults worldwide.
LVGW, a United Way agency, provides volunteers with free training. No prior teaching experience is necessary, but volunteers must be at least 18 years of age with a high school diploma or equivalent and possess excellent oral and written English skills. The fall tutor training sessions are sponsored by the Connecticut Community Foundation. To register for one of these 1.5 hour orientation sessions, call Vanessa at 203-754-1164:
· Tuesday, September 6, 6 p.m., Silas Bronson Library Auditorium, 267 Grand Street, Waterbury
· Wednesday, September 7, 6 p.m., Wolcott Public Library, 469 Bound Line Road
· Friday, September 9, 10:30 a.m., Middlebury Public Library, 30 Crest Road
· Saturday, September 10, 10 a.m., Southbury Public Library, 100 Poverty Road
· Tuesday, September 13, 6 p.m., Ion Bank Foundation Community Room, 270 Church Street, Naugatuck
Locally, it is estimated that 25% of Waterbury adults are functioning at low literacy levels and the need for our services continues to rise. Programs offered are English as a Second Language and Basic Literacy instruction, both with a focus on life and work skills; and U.S. Citizenship Preparation. Last year 220 adults were served by these programs. In addition, the Family Literacy and Waterbury Reads programs promote the benefits of reading to thousands of children each year. Since 1974, LVGW has served the communities of Beacon Falls, Cheshire, Middlebury, Naugatuck, Oakville, Oxford, Plymouth, Prospect, Southbury, Terryville, Thomaston, Waterbury, Watertown, Wolcott, and Woodbury. For more information visit www.Lvgwct.org.