Literacy Volunteers of East Bay Seeks Donations, Volunteers

Photo: Elizabeth McDowell, director of LVEB. (Submitted photo)

What if you couldn’t apply for a job because you didn’t know how to use the Internet? Or couldn’t figure out the local bus schedule to get to an interview?

Literacy Volunteers of East Bay (LVEB) is seeking donations and, also, adults willing to be trained as volunteer tutors.

The nonprofit, with offices in Warren and Newport, is recognizing National Adult Education and Family Literacy Week, Sept. 22 through 28, with an appeal to the public for critical support.

LVEB serves East Providence, Barrington, Warren, Bristol, Portsmouth, Tiverton, Little Compton, Middletown, Newport, and Jamestown.

“For three decades, Literacy Volunteers has built a stronger, more work-ready community through the generosity of our tutors and the ambition of our students,” said Elizabeth McDowell, director, one of the three part-time employees. “Help us to continue to give our neighbors the power to change their lives.”

More than 36 million American adults struggle to read, write, handle math, and use technology beyond a third-grade level.

The outcome? Opportunities for satisfying work, for an adequate paycheck and for optimal health are greatly curtailed. The impact on children is also substantial.

LVEB provides one-on-one tutoring and small group classes for adults who struggled in school or dropped out, or have come here from other countries. Services are free and confidential.

“I would like to open up doors that have stayed closed and to make a better life for myself.” (Mr. J. of East Providence)

“You don’t know how my life changed.” (Ms. S., Barrington)

“My first job was to wash dishes, but now I am a cook.” (Mr. S, Newport)

In a typical year, volunteers deliver more than 4,000 hours of tutoring to some 100 students.

The agency is supported by funds from the R.I. Department of Education, State and local government, the annual campaign, and generous donations from area businesses, such as BankNewport, and residents.

To make a monetary gift, to inquire about training to become a tutor or to receive tutoring help, call Ms. McDowell at 247-2177, or visit www.LVEB.org for a link to PayPal.