Attendees were educated and motivated by guest speakers Carol Henault, Executive Director, Reading is Fundamental (RIF) and Pat Zayas, ESL Divison Chairperson, Glendale Community College.
Pat spoke of the changing demographic of ESL participants in the Glendale Community and how class registration, consistently, exceeds capacity. Despite public opinion, immigrants to this country are very interested in learning the culture and language of America. Glendale Altrusa has been a valuable participant in the ESL program for over 25 years. Members regularly assist the instructors in testing students' English language proficiency and their occupational literacy -- their ability to function in the community.
The RIF program focuses on promoting literacy and motivating children to read. Carol stressed that RIF is unique in providing children the opportunity to choose and take home free, new books to create their own home libraries - giving them a sense of ownership and pride. Statistically, students who read books of their own choosing are more likely to be more motivated, independent readers. She left us with this quote:
"A child who can read, is a child who can learn and a child who can learn is a child who succeeds."
Both speakers left us with renewed enthusiasm and great ideas of ways in which Altrusa can continue to support literacy in our communities. Whether your Club seeks to work with adults or children, there are many opportunities to get involved.
Sue Daniels and Yvonne Voisin, event coordinators, did a wonderful job planning the speakers, organizing the Clubs, and arranging dinner.
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