Voices of Project Literacy - Watertown Free Public Library

For the past three years, I’ve been involved with Project Literacy as a tutor, Let’s Talkfacilitator, and a member of the Friends of Project Literacy. From these varied perspectives,I’ve seen first-hand the dedication of the staff and volunteers and the commitment of thestudents. Most importantly, I’ve seen how Project Literacy can change lives.When I first began, I tutored a Thai woman who had a six-year old daughter. One of hergoals was to read English bedtime stories to her daughter. Each time we met, we chose achildren’s book, which my student read aloud as I coached her on pronunciation and vocabulary.By tutoring her, I was helping both mother and daughter adjust to life in this country.It is gratifying to feel that my volunteer work is helping newcomers. But even moreimportant is the benefit I’m receiving from getting to know extraordinary people whohave the courage to start a new life and the motivation to make it a success.– Ellen Isenstein, Tutor, Friends of Project Literacy board memberWhen I came to the U.S., I didn't speak English. It was so difficult for me. I didn'tunderstand people on the street. Then, after a few months, I received an invitation toProject Literacy; it was so good for me. Now I feel much better; now I'm not scared whenpeople ask me about something. I take care of my daughter now and I don't work, butsoon I'd like to have a good job and I will need to go to college. I should study English,because this is my future.Project Literacy does good things for me. I have an opportunity to study English, whichis very important for me. Thanks, Project Literacy, for everything.– Maria Slavitskaya, StudentI like my “English class” and my friends-students. I have to tell you about very interestingprograms of our class. We are learning new words and idioms. Our teacher is Neela andhas very good English.– Nellia Gavryliak, Jean M. Bazile, Vladimir Khalagrin, Students(Beginner 2 Evening Class)27