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What?
Citizens for Adult Literacy and Learning (CALL) is a nonprofit organization in Amherst County, Virginia, whose aim is to help adults improve their quality of life by mastering basic reading, writing, and math skills. Since our inception in 1990, we have established ties with the Department of Social Services, the public library system, and the public schools, and have entered into collaboration with the Region 2000 Career Center in Lynchburg, which integrates regional education, training, and employment services.
Why?
According to the 2000 census, the illiteracy rate for Amherst county is 29.4%, which is more than 10% higher than the state average. The unemployment rate for the county is higher than the state average, and the median income for county families with children is below the state average. According to the National Center for Educational Statistics, unemployment rates and low wages are directly correlated to illiteracy: An adult without a high school diploma earns 42% less than an adult with a high school diploma, and high school dropouts have an unemployment rate four times greater than that of high school graduates. Furthermore, advancement is usually based on educational attainment. All these factors may place the home in financial turmoil, and often lead to a lower quality of life.
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How?
CALL provides individual tutoring sessions for adults in Amherst County. Applicants are given a two day assessment and orientation before being placed with a tutor. The level of instruction offered ranges from beginning reading to GED preparation. Services are also provided for adults who have a high school diploma but who wish to improve their basic reading, writing, or math skills.
Who?
Except for a part-time coordinator, CALL is staffed entirely by volunteers, including trained tutors who provide individualized instruction, and a Board of Directors that has general oversight of the organization.
Where?
Our facilities are located in the Monroe Education Center, just off Route 29. In addition to the office, we also have study rooms equipped with a computer and other teaching resources.
When?
Tutoring sessions are arranged to suit students’ and tutors’ schedules. At minimum, they meet weekly for one-hour sessions, but some meet more often, and a student may meet with more than one tutor each week, depending on his or her needs. |
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