Volume 36 | May 15, 2021
This issue is all about Memorial Day and neighborhoods!
Greetings, Tutors!

Believe it or not, Memorial Day is almost here. Memorial Day, the last Monday in May, for many Americans, conjures up images of hamburgers, hot dogs, swimming pools, and the beginning of summer. But this year, May 31, serves most importantly, as a sacred day of observance; a time to honor those brave heroes who died while fighting in the U.S. Armed Forces. It’s a holiday steeped in somber American history and tradition. The day actually began as “Decoration Day,” following the Civil War, when mourners placed flowers on the graves of Union and Confederate soldiers. Yes, Memorial Day has also come to signify the “unofficial” start of summer, but let’s remember those who made it all possible. 

This issue of Keeping in Touch is about Memorial Day and Neighborhoods.

As always, please do not hesitate to reach out if you have questions or need help with tutoring strategies during this time. Be well and take care.

With gratitude and hope,

Your Tutor Support Specialist
Tutor Engagement

  • Please complete this short survey by May 19th - In 2022, Literacy DuPage will celebrate its 50th Anniversary! As part of our year-long celebration, we will share inspiring, funny, and fascinating stories from our tutors and learners through a variety of channels. Literacy DuPage has teamed up with Story Studio Chicago to host a 90-minute, online storytelling workshop in June or July. Please take the 3-question survey by Wednesday, May 19th. Once we have collected responses, we will schedule the class and share more details with those who have expressed interest in participating.

  • In-person tutoring - If you and your student are meeting in-person and haven’t signed the waiver documents. For a copy of the letter sent to tutors, including the required waivers, click here.  

  • We want to hear from YOU! Email Carol your ideas, questions, or opportunities you would like to share with other tutors. Your contribution may be featured in an upcoming issue!
Resources for you & your student
English Conversation Groups
ESL Conversation Groups offer an informal and friendly environment for adults at an intermediate or above level to practice their English listening and speaking skills.

Literacy DuPage is currently offering six virtual (Zoom) ESL Conversation Groups. Although these groups are hosted by the following partner libraries, they are open to anyone in DuPage County.

Community Resources
C.A.B.S provides individualized consultation and therapy services to children and families living with Autism Spectrum Disorders. Click here for information about financial support resources.  
The Illinois Housing Development Authority provides emergency rental assistance for eligible Illinois residents. Click here for information in English and Spanish.  
Prairie State Legal Services provides legal assistance to help those facing eviction. Click here for information in English and Spanish.
Eviction Help Illinois is a state-funded network of 16 non-profit organizations providing free legal aid, mediation services, and connections to other resources including rental assistance in response to the eviction crisis. Click here for information in English and Spanish.
FEMA is providing assistance for CODVID-19 related funeral expenses incurred after January 20, 2020. Click here for information in English and Spanish.
The US Department of Homeland Security has developed an online awareness toolkit and is enrolling participants in their pilot program. Click here for more information.

  • Participate in the US Department of Homeland Security’s Digital Forum on Technology-Based Approaches to Targeted Violence and Terrorism Prevention Through Health and Well-Being June 2-4, 2021. Click here for more information.
Activity Links, Online Links, and Lesson Plans
Below are individual activity links, online links, and lesson plans about Memorial Day and neighborhoods.
You may be able to use one or more with your student.
Activity Links
Lesson Plans:
MEMORIAL DAY

PDF Lesson Plans
Online Links
Need help? Reach out to Carol Garcia today!