TCNN Member Focus: Literacy Volunteers of Broome-Tioga Counties, Inc.

Literacy Volunteers of Broome-Tioga Counties, Inc. is a non-profit dedicated to providing adult learners with instruction in basic literacy skills of reading, math, computer literacy and increasing English proficiency. The organization utilizes trained volunteers and staff to provide confidential educational services through a learner-centered approach that values and honors individual student needs and goals. Also, the Tioga Adult Learning Lab, a computer literacy program in Tioga County, assists adults in gaining skills needed for employment, resume preparation, software instruction and completing job applications online. All services are of no cost to learners. 

In Broome and Tioga Counties, as well as nationally, it is estimated that 14 percent of the adult population has a literacy issue that negatively impacts his or her life. This translates into about one out of every six adults not being able to read or do math at a fifth grade level, fully comprehend a newspaper article, or fill out a job application accurately. 

Studies have shown that the education level of an adult will have a direct impact on the success of a child’s education in the same household. Also, when considering workforce literacy, it is estimated that low literacy levels in adults can cost the U.S. as much as $225 billion each year in reduced workplace productivity and loss of tax revenue due to unemployment.

Literacy Volunteers of Broome- Tioga Counties, Inc., in operation since 1967, is now marking its 50th year of service to the community. On Saturday, Oct. 21, the agency will hold a 50th Anniversary Gala event with nationally known educator Craig Boykin as keynote speaker. Details of this event, or to learn more about the agency programs, how to volunteer or to donate, can be found at the agency’s website, www.broometiogaliteracy.org, or by contacting the main office located at 185 Court St. in Binghamton at (607) 778-6406. Literacy Volunteers is a United Way Agency.

The Tioga County Non-Profit Network (TCNN) is a grassroots effort to bring together leaders from non-profit organizations to address common interests and to better serve the people of Tioga County. TCNN typically meets every other month on the 4th Wednesday from noon to 1:30 p.m. 

For more information, visit http://tioga.cce.cornell.edu or contact Andy Fagan, CCE Tioga executive director at (607) 687-4020 or email to agf1@cornell.edu.