Literacy Connection Volunteer Christine Awe Receives Elgin Image Award

For the past twenty-four years, Christine Awe has been a volunteer at The Literacy Connection. Awe has directly and positively impacted numerous lives through tutoring adults in Elgin, many of whom are immigrants to the area. All of her learners have made significant advances in their language learning, which is a testament to her dedication to the organization’s mission and her genuine respect and care for her learners’ needs.

The Literacy Connection staff was proud to nominate Awe for an Elgin Image Award in the Volunteer Extraordinaire category, which she received in a ceremony on Tuesday, October 29, 2024 at Gail Borden Public Library, presented by The Enhancing Elgin Committee of the Elgin Area Chamber. In her acceptance speech, she shared, “I’ve come full circle. Twenty-five years ago I was on the Elgin Image Advisory Commission, and now I’m a recipient.” Over her many years as a volunteer, Awe has given over 640 hours as a volunteer tutor and over 800 hours in other volunteer roles such as serving on the Board of Directors where her roles have included President, Vice President, Secretary, and currently, Treasurer. Her leadership has ensured the organization was sustained during lean financial times, and she has helped usher it into its fortieth year of service this year.

“I am honored to be a part of this wonderful organization,” Awe says. “The staff and board of directors are dedicated to our mission and work hard to serve our learners and tutors.” Awe takes pride in the Elgin area and stays connected and active not only through the agency, but through her church, her friendships, and her attendance at fundraisers and community events. “I am very proud to live in Elgin. I was born here, I was raised here, and I will probably die here,” she says with a laugh.

The Literacy Connection is deeply grateful to Awe for her continued service, and encourages fellow community members to join her commitment to literacy. Anyone interested in getting involved can visit www.elginliteracy.org or call (847)742-6565.