TCNN Member Focus: Literacy Volunteers of Broome-Tioga Counties

Literacy Volunteers of Broome-Tioga Counties, Inc. (LVBTC) is a non-profit dedicated to providing adult learners with instruction in basic literacy skills in reading, math, computer literacy and increasing English proficiency. LVBTC utilizes trained volunteers and staff to provide confidential educational services through a learner-centered approach that values and honors individual student needs and goals. 

Among these services, the Tioga Adult Learning Lab (T.A.L.L.), offers computer literacy training in Tioga County, assisting adults in gaining skills 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 means one out of every six adults cannot 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 of 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 is currently looking for adult volunteer tutors in Tioga County. Tutors are typically matched with an adult student who wants to increase their literacy skills. Tutors and students meet one to two hours weekly to work on the student’s learning goals. Each volunteer tutor receives training, as well as program support and learning materials. 

To learn more about LVBTC’s adult education programs, how to volunteer or to donate, please visit the LVBTC website www.broometiogaliteracy.org or by contacting the LVBTC office located at 185 Court St., 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 fourth 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.