Literacy Services of Indian River County is pleased to welcome two new members to its Board of Directors. Chris Locke, a CPA with Evans Properties, was elected to the Board at the organization’s Annual Meeting in January. John Musselman, Vice President of Sales and Marketing at Phenolaeis, joined the Board in June and was elected as Vice President this month.
Both new board members have diverse experiences and skills but are united by a passion for empowering adults with the English language and literacy skills they need to thrive in our community. Chris had served on the Finance Committee previous to joining the Board and credits his librarian mother for his interest in literacy. John, who serves on the Development Committee, met his wife in Turkey and saw the important impact a local ESL program made for her after they moved to Chicago.
Board President, Kent Jones states “we look forward to working alongside Chris and John to further the mission of Literacy Services and build a community of readers.” The Board, which now consists of 11 members, is dedicated to meeting the Strategic Plan goals approved in 2020 and adding new members will help expand its capacity.
Literacy Services was founded in 1971 and its mission is to deliver comprehensive and innovative learning opportunities to local adults seeking English language and literacy skills to achieve their goals. Literacy Services’ vision is that all adults are empowered with the literacy skills they need to thrive in the community.
This year, Literacy Services is celebrating its 50th Anniversary serving the community and is hosting events throughout the season beginning with a Launch Party and culminating with a special evening on March 7, 2022, at Sea Oaks. Sponsorships are still available for the season and more information can be found on the organization’s website at www.literacyservicesirc.org.
The organization, a United Way supported agency, relies on over 100 volunteer tutors who provide free, confidential and one-to-one tutoring to individuals aged 16 and older or within group settings at the request of local employers. Tutors do not need any prior teaching experience and receive training, ongoing support and resources from Literacy Services. There is a waiting list of over 60 students and more tutors are needed.
For more information about getting involved or Literacy Services’ Anniversary events, please visit www.literacyservicesirc.org or call 772-778-2223.