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

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. The organization utilizes trained volunteers and staff members to provide confidential educational services through a learner-centered approach that values and honors individual student needs and goals.

Among these services, the Tioga Education Lab (TEL) meets every Wednesday from noon to 1:30 p.m. and assists adults with English reading, writing, speaking, and basic math instruction. The Tioga Adult Learning Lab (TALL) offers a computer literacy program in Tioga County, which 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 is currently seeking adult learners and tutors in Tioga County. Learners (students) are welcome to attend the offered learning labs and/or classes. Tutors are typically matched with an adult student who wants to increase their reading, writing and/or math skills. Tutors and students meet 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 TALL and TEL programs, how to volunteer or to donate, visit the LVBTC website at www.broometiogaliteracy.org or contact the LVBTC office, located at 185 Court St. in Binghamton, by calling (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 tioga.cce.cornell.edu or contact Andy Fagan, CCE Tioga executive director, by calling (607) 687-4020 or by email to agf1@cornell.edu.

Be the first to comment on "TCNN Member Focus – Literacy Volunteers of Broome-Tioga Counties, Inc."

Leave a comment

Your email address will not be published.


*