LVA's WRITE FROM THE HEART PROVIDES THOUGHT-PROVOKING READING
by Literacy Volunteers and Advocates on 06/05/12
Anyone who thinks people struggling to improve their reading and writing skills have nothing to say needs to read the 2012 edition of WRITE FROM THE HEART.
LVA learners did more than just put boilerplate phrases on paper about the importance of writing and reading. Learners expended hours upon hours of effort trying to master the reading and writing skills that are very difficult for them but which most people take for granted.
Because LVA learners have had to work so hard and for so long to to improve their reading, writing, and computer skills makes them very appreciative of the value of an education.
It's getting tougher and tougher for people with limited reading and writing skills to make a living in the demanding DC job market. As LVA learner Eric Hall writes:
It's hard to get a job without a G.E.D.
Even fast food places will not hire me.
I think it's time to take the test.
LVA learners stil have to survive, hard as it is with below average literacy skills. But somehow many manage to do so. One LVA learner, Willie Ray Haynes, Jr., writes about that in his contribution about driving a taxi cab. And as Emmanuel Campbell and William Anthony West make clear in their essays, they are prepared to earn their GEDs, no matter the time and effort it takes.
The value of having the skills necessary to learn and to obtain an education extend far beyond monetary value. LVA learner Bernice Johnson writes that being able to read and write can help people to come to "understand the true beauty of life."
Why not purchase a copy of WRITE FROM THE HEART to discover the depth of thought and commitment to learning that exists within LVA learners? But do not stop there.
Share your copy and your thoughts about the importance of literacy programs serving adult learners with your friends, local elected officials, the leaders of community organizations and your local house of worship.
Make sure they understand that 20% of Washingtonians lack adequate literacy skills but LVA is striving to help learners to improve their ability to read, write, perform mathematics, and to use computers.
Purchase a copy of WRITE FROM THE HEART by calling LVA at (202) 387-1772 or by sending an e-mail to info@lvanca.org
Remember what Frederick Douglass said: "Once you learn to read, you will be forever free."
