This week the Illinois State Library spotlights Fishes & Loaves Outreach in Springfield.

Each day was the same for this adult learner. He spent most of his time watching television because he didn’t like to read. After working in various restaurants he began to  dream of becoming a chef, but he couldn’t understand written recipes. His family encouraged him to obtain tutoring, and he reluctantly enrolled at Fishes and Loaves.

Three years later, he is ready to enroll in the culinary arts program at Springfield’s Lincoln Land Community College. This adult learner enjoys cooking and is very good at it. He loves to read, even more than watching TV! Not only does his tutor motivate and inspire him, the tutor has also helped him learn to communicate and express his thoughts in a productive way. Due to a changed attitude his relationship with his mother has improved.

This adult learner is well on his way to becoming a chef!