Northwest Ohio Literacy Council

Program Overview

The mission of the Northwest Ohio Literacy Council is to enable adults, whose low level of literacy impedes their progress in society to set and achieve their personal goals through improved literacy skills. With the help of volunteer tutors, the Literacy Council offers one-on-one training for adults in reading, writing, math, computer skills, ESL and citizenship preparation. This non-profit agency is funded by The United Way of Lima, grants and fundraisers.

Cost Info

Student and Volunteer Success Stories

RYAN'S SUCCESS

Ryan H. entered the Literacy Council building for the first time in March 2016 to attend a GED Orientation. He had been recently released from prison and was living at the Alvis House. He'd heard about the GED classes offered through our partner, the Lima City Schools, from another resident at the Alvis House. Ryan had attended school to the 11th grade before dropping out of high school. His goal was to get his GED, get a job and start his life over.
During orientation, he, like all students, was tested for his level of basic skills. With test scores placing him at the elementary level, it was clear that Ryan would need more help than GED class. His Reading level was at the 3rd grade level and his Math was at the 2nd grade level. Through our symbiotic partnership with the GED program, Ryan was referred to the Literacy Council for individual tutoring. So in addition to attending GED classes four days a week, Ryan was also meeting with a tutor two days a week - and making progress! He jumped two grade levels in one month in Reading and Language. But that was the last chance the Literacy Council would have with Ryan.
Like so many adult students, circumstances change, schedules shift and life happens. Ryan was released from the Alvis House and found living arrangements 45 minutes away. He didn't have a driver's licence, but he was offered a job in a shop. So Ryan made the hard choice to quit his tutoring sessions and GED classes so he could make some money and help with his two small children.
In January 2017, Ryan showed up at the Literacy Council once more. Instead of asking for help, Ryan stopped by to say thank you. He wanted us to know life was great. He'd gotten his driver's license back, still had his job, and was about to get married. One of the things he was most proud of though was a program that his probation officer offered to him. He was back in prison, only this time, he wasn't there to stay. Ryan was sharing his story with other inmates, inspiring them to change their ways and pursue their education. From that first day in April 2016 to today, it seems Ryan went well beyond his goal to start over. He's telling others about the life and opportunities that are possible outside the prison walls.