Bianca emigrated to the United States from Brazil three years ago to build a better life for herself and her family. Like most immigrants, Bianca struggled to understand English when she arrived. Bianca has a degree in Engineering and her native language is Portuguese. Unable to speak or write in English, Bianca could not work, and she struggled with conversations that were important to her family—such as helping her two children with their school work and scheduling doctor appointments.
Determined to change her circumstances, Bianca sought help. At first Bianca enrolled in paid English courses, but when she could no longer afford the instruction, she began searching online for a more affordable program. This is how she found Literacy DuPage.
Literacy DuPage matched Bianca with Cheri, and the two met to discuss Bianca’s goals and how to achieve them. Cheri and Bianca began their lessons with vocabulary that would help Bianca engage with her neighbors and her community. Then, they moved onto phrases that would help her in the workplace and at her children’s school. Cheri and Bianca have been working together for almost a year and Bianca’s English has improved significantly.
Before Literacy DuPage, Bianca relied on her husband to communicate because he’s fluent in English. Now Bianca is much more confident and independent, able to get around and communicate without relying on someone else’s support.
Bianca’s new English-literacy skills will increase her prospects of finding a job, becoming an advocate for her family, and engaging within her community.
Our congratulations and appreciation go out to Bianca and Cheri for sharing their resolve and achievements together! If you would like to share your story, please contact Kathleen by email or phone.
Thank you for lighting a
spark
through literacy!
