The BeLit Bulletin, May 2021 |
Dear Friends,
I am thrilled to introduce the premiere edition of Beyond Literacy's monthly newsletter: the BeLit Bulletin.
How did we get here?
Center for Literacy and Community Learning Center, two experienced and passionate adult education nonprofit agencies with a shared mission, have joined forces to launch an even stronger organization as Beyond Literacy (BeLit).
What next?
Our supporters, staff, and learners are now a part of the BeLit family! From our collective campuses in North, West, and Center City Philadelphia, we will offer a full array of adult and family literacy services both in-person and through hybrid learning. Our full combined board and staff are currently participating in a comprehensive strategic planning process to write the next chapter in our story. Stay tuned to see where our growth and commitment take us from here.
Thank you!
I want to take this opportunity to thank each and every one of you for putting your trust in us over the decades that have brought us where we are today. Your support drives our mission to improve lives through the power of literacy. Our teachers, student support staff, volunteers, and board members… everybody at BeLit is driven to serve our learners through effective, high quality educational opportunities. Our commitment is stronger than ever during this exciting time, and we couldn’t be any prouder of our dynamic new organization.
Sincerest gratitude,
Kimmell
Kimmell Proctor, BeLit CEO
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Follow Us on Social Media ~ Win Fun Prizes!
Everyone who follows Beyond Literacy on social media by end of day on Friday, May 7th, will be entered in a raffle for these fun prizes generously donated by our partners in Center City:
~ Family pack of 5 tickets for free admission and skate rental at the brand new outdoor Roller Rink in Dilworth Park at City Hall, plus a $50 gift card to dine at the Center City Air Grille
~ Wawa Gift Basket filled with Wawa branded swag items as well as coupons for free Wawa food and beverage items
Sign up today on any of our social channels to be entered in our raffle - and most importantly - to stay up-to-date with all our latest posts and updates!
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OUR LEARNER SPOTLIGHT:
Richard Whitt, Recent Upskilling Student
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Play the video to hear Richard's thoughts on Beyond Literacy, in his own words. |
Known by his peers for his positivity, Richard Whitt is a man who never gives up. After 30 years in the customer service industry, earning numerous promotions and awards, Richard was unexpectedly laid off in 2019. Determined to turn this blow into an opportunity for growth, Richard reflected on the advice he had often shared with others, “I know when one door closes, another one opens up.”
At the age of 59, Richard realized he would need to develop new capabilities to meet the challenges of an evolving workplace, so he enrolled in BeLit's upskilling program located at our PA CareerLink partner site in Suburban Station. By offering upskilling as one of our cost-free courses, BeLit provides critical additional training in foundational skills for our advanced learners wishing to grow or change their careers.
When the pandemic struck and classes shifted online, Richard's preference for in-person instruction and personal connection with his classmates initially made the transition to remote learning difficult. Now, a year later, Richard considers his zoom classes a blessing, and is grateful that his teacher, Marcus Hall, was willing to tutor him throughout this past year in order to close his skill gaps.
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Now 60 years old, Richard has successfully completed his upskilling courses as well as a technology certification program to master skills like Microsoft Excel, Access, and Quickbooks. As he studies for the entrance exam to a career in technology and customization, Richard keeps in touch with BeLit staff saying he would like to give back to the organization that gave him a second chance when he needed it most.
Richard says he would love to return to Beyond Literacy to motivate other learners who are searching for their purpose, and inspire them not to give up. He tells us, “A lot of people are looking for a change or to make themselves better. Beyond Literacy [is] a wonderful tool to get learning or growth and take advantage of the opportunities available.”
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It's Teacher Appreciation Week!
In a tough year, our BeLit educators stood out and provided hope to hundreds of learners. Huge thanks to all our teachers, classroom volunteers, and staff who have gone the extra mile for their students during the pandemic and in the midst of our merger. We couldn't bring our mission to life without you.
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Our mission is to expand opportunities and improve lives by unleashing the power of literacy through free, high-quality education. |
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