The ROE’s STAR Literacy program served 482 students at 13 supervised tutoring sites in FY07. Here are a few highlights of their many successes.

• During National Volunteer Appreciation Week, a woman who entered the program several years ago spoke to other learners, telling them how her tutor helped her pass her test for a driver’s license.  Without the help of her tutor, she said, she never would have gained her license.  This woman now is able to speak to groups and has obtained a job. 
• Another adult learner wanted a career in law enforcement but knew her poor reading skills would make enrollment in college a problem.  After working with a volunteer tutor, she improved her reading level and gained enough confidence to pass the admission exam at Heartland Community College, where she is now taking classes toward achieving her goal. 
• Two women came to the United States shortly after 9/11. After attending ESL classes regularly, they are now U.S. citizens.
• A woman in her early forties is now thrilled that she can read road signs for the first time in her life.
• A grandmother struggled with reading for years.  After working with her tutor for three years, her reading improved so dramatically that she hopes one day to be a volunteer tutor.

Learn more about the ISL Literacy Office and the hundreds of literacy providers who receive grants.