Rotarians Learn About Trident Literacy
May 22, 2007: Today the Chairman of the Board of the Trident Literacy Association addressed our club to help us all understand the importance of what they do and how we, as community members, can help them continue to help those in need.
Molly Hughes has been on the Board of Directors for the association for 6 years. She is an attorney with Nexsen Pruet specializing in labor and employment law. She received her undergraduate degree, magna cum laude, from Wofford College and her law degree, cum laude, from the University of South Carolina. This is her first year as Chairman.
The Trident Literacy Association is a non-profit organization that has been in operation for 35 years this year. It was started by a small group of teachers that had no budget and has, over the years, grown into a formidable organization. There are 10 board members who have a common goal to help each person become self sufficient and economically independent.
What is Literacy?
When Molly asked the club the above question, several people had different versions but the common one heard was “being able to read.” The US Congress has a much longer and wordier version, but Molly’s definition was simple: Literacy is fundamental to a person’s ability to function in life in every way. If a person is unable to read or write, than regular things become much more difficult and at times impossible. Grocery shopping, reading prescription instructions, interpreting directions or instructions and the list goes on.
How does the Literacy Association help?
With over 7 main sites and 20 outreach locations, the associations helps approximately 3,000 adults (18 years and older) per year. There are over 200 volunteers that assist in several areas, with many of them tutoring students on an individual basis. Each student pays a nominal fee (no more than $25) to attend classes. The association is also funded by the Federal and State Government as well as several corporate and individual donors, some who are members of our club.
What do they do?
There are several different programs for the students. Some are: English as a Second Language program, the GED program and the Adult Basic Education program. They give classes in all their locations and have now been authorized to teach a GED class at the Charleston County Detention Center.
Why is it important?
1 in 4 adults in the Tri-County area is illiterate. There are 50,000 people that are functionally illiterate in the Tri-County area. It’s important for our community to be aware for so many reasons. For example, in order for our community to continue to grow and prosper and have new businesses come to the area, we must provide a work force that is qualified.
How can we help?
The best way is by volunteering to tutor, help with publicity, office work, fundraising or in numerous other ways. Volunteers are requested to commit to two hours per week for at least six months. If you can’t commit your time, donations and word of mouth publicity are also very helpful. For more information, please contact the Trident Literacy Foundation at 747-2223.
Submitted by Darby Hand, Keyway Committee