In the Spotlight
Chatham Literacy Fundraiser Luncheon Raises $45,000 for Adult Literacy Programs
Chatham Literacy hosted its 13th Annual Spring for Literacy Luncheon, on April 25, 2024, raising $45,000 to support the organization’s adult literacy programs. The event, attended by 235 people, featured inspiring stories from Anastasia and Estefania Tourino, their tutor Karen Mirkovich, as well as, a thought-provoking speech by bestselling author Brendan Slocumb.
The Tourino sisters shared their journey of learning English through Chatham Literacy’s programs, overcoming language barriers to secure jobs, purchase a home, and help family members immigrate to the United States. They credited their tutor, Karen Mirkovich, for her invaluable support and guidance. Mirkovich also shared with the audience how tutoring has changed her life.
Slocumb, author of the musical thrillers “The Violin Conspiracy” and “Symphony of Secrets,” spoke about the importance of providing opportunities for marginalized individuals to contribute to society. He emphasized the transformative power of education and the role of literacy programs in empowering people to achieve their dreams.
“Chatham Literacy’s efforts to help offer more opportunities to area citizens with their adult literacy program are truly appreciated,” said Slocumb. “It’s encouraging and inspiring to hear the stories of individuals like Anastasia and Estefania, who have worked hard to overcome challenges and succeed.”
The luncheon’s success highlights the community’s commitment to supporting adult literacy initiatives in Chatham County. Chatham Literacy remains dedicated to providing adults with the necessary skills to function successfully in society.
Calendar
September 21: Hispanic Heritage Fiesta hosted by Hispanic Liaison. Fiesta will be at a NEW VENUE – the Shakori Hills Arts Center, a short drive from Siler City, Pittsboro, and many other towns in our region. 1439 Henderson Tanyard Rd, Pittsboro, NC. Event time: 12 noon to 6 pm. hispanicliaison.org/event/hispanic-heritage-fiesta-2024/
October 24: 8th Annual Fall For Literacy Luncheon with author Jill McCorkle. Tickets on sale August 15th. Save the date!
Programs
- 8th Annual Fall For Literacy Luncheon with author Jill McCorkle
https://chathamliteracy.org/events WHAT: Master storyteller and bestselling author Jill McCorkle discusses her acclaimed short story collection Old Crimes at Chatham Literacy’s 8th Annual Fall for Literacy Luncheon on Thursday, October 24, 11:00 am-2:00 pm. WHEN: Advance ticket sales available starting August 1st.WHERE: Chatham County Agriculture & Conference Center TICKETS: $125 per ticket; tables seat 10 people - Celebrating Our Newest American Citizens!
We’re overjoyed to announce that 12 Chatham Literacy learners have achieved their dream of US citizenship this past year! Let’s give a round of applause to: * Elia Zaga (08/04/2023)* Luis Aguila (08/23/2023)* Lidia Valdez (08/24/2023)* Janet Justo Celestino (08/31/2023)* Pedro Lorenzo (09/06/2023)* Elvia Garcia (09/19/2023)* Elda Gonzalez (11/30/2023)* Nicteloi Vargas (02/05/2024)* Elizandro Villasenor (02/27/2024)*… Read more: Celebrating Our Newest American Citizens! - The Sweet Success of Carolina Cravings
February 13, 2024 marks three years since Chatham Literacy students Yeraldyn (Yera) Martinez and Iliana Jesús Escalante-Palacios opened “Carolina Cravings”, a popular bakery in downtown Pittsboro. Many young businesses struggle in their early years, but their business has thrived — thanks to elbow grease, personal sacrifices, and the Financial Literacy program at Chatham Literacy. This… Read more: The Sweet Success of Carolina Cravings
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Our Mission
“When an adult learns to read, write, and understand English, do basic math, and use computers, they gain skills they need to lift themselves out of poverty.” –ProLiteracy
The purpose of Chatham Literacy’s programs is to build these foundational literacy skills that help adult learners achieve long-term outcomes including gainful employment, financial and family stability, improved health care access, and better outcomes for their children, our next generation. Achievement of these long-term goals improves the learner’s quality of life and strengthens their communities.
Fiscal Year 2022-2023
- 151 adult learners engaged in tutoring services
- 54 tutors volunteered
- 4,047 instructional hours logged
- 60% of adult leaners with 70 instructional hours gained at least one grade level or one literacy level in their reading ability. (National average is 40%.)
- 8 adult learners became U.S. citizens
(142 new citizens since Chatham Literacy started in 2008!