Literacy Services of Indian River County closed out a year filled with 50th Anniversary Celebrations, hosting its Donor Reception among the stacks at the Vero Beach Book Center.
The nonprofit had kicked off its golden jubilee with a Launch Party at Brackett Library, followed by a summer tutor social at Walking Tree. It feted its students in Fellsmere and hosted a glorious Stories by the Sea fundraiser at the Sea Oaks Beach Club. This grand finale was, appropriately, held among rows upon rows of books, as donors, tutors and students reflected on the nonprofit’s 50-year history.
“This donor reception is our chance to express our gratitude to you, our loyal supporters,” said Jessica Schmitt, Literacy Services executive director. “Without you, we wouldn’t have been able to serve the hundreds of students with English language literacy skills so they can thrive in our community. Please know that your generosity truly changes lives.”
A highlight of the evening was when two Literacy Services students read from “Stories by the Sea,” a collection of more than 50 stories written by students, tutors and community leaders, and compiled by a committee of volunteers. The book is available for purchase at the Vero Beach Book Center.
Last year’s student of the year, Marisela Kempf, read her inspirational story that chronicled her struggles from first arriving in the United States to recently obtaining her U.S. citizenship.
This year’s student of the year, Yuxia Simmons, spoke of how Literacy Services had helped her along the way, during her journey to become a U.S. citizen.
“Who would have thought such a mighty little organization could not only have six events to celebrate our 50th anniversary but publish a book as well,” said Don Mann, committee chair with wife Sandy. “I don’t know of any organization in this county that did such a thing. Our budget is tiny. We’re tiny. That’s what attracted me 22 years ago to Literacy Services.”
Mann shared that their approach is to “do what the students want.” Their goal is to empower all adults with the literacy skills they need to thrive in a way that meets each student’s needs – whether it’s the ability to speak English, learning to read well enough to obtain a driver’s license or GED, or needing help writing a job application or college entrance essay.
“Our tutors work tirelessly with these students who now recognize the value of education. My favorites are those students who want to become citizens of the United States of America. They come and study and learn. It’s a very gratifying thing,” said Mann.
“We do it with an incredible staff of tutors who not only give of their time and their expertise. But, as a tutor, it is just as important to give of your friendship. That really builds the self-confidence of the students.”
For more information, visit LiteracyServicesIRC.org.
Photos by Kaila Jones
