Literacy Services of Indian River County’s tutors, students and their families arrived at South Beach Park early last Saturday morning, September 17th, to participate in the International Coastal Clean-up Day with Coastal Connections. Participants first learned about sea turtles and the importance of keeping the beaches clean, before setting off to pick up trash throughout the park and on the beach.
This was the first field trip of the season offered by the organization to its students, who are learning English language literacy skills to achieve their goals. Partnering with Coastal Connections provided an immersive educational experience as the students interacted and practiced their English, while also learning more about their community.
In October, students will travel to the Vero Beach Museum of Art where they will be given a special tour of the exhibits and an opportunity to create their own masterpieces. In November, they will visit the Environmental Learning Center to learn about the Indian River Lagoon.
The mission of Literacy Services, founded in 1971, 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. During the last fiscal year, over 250 students achieved more than 570 personal goals.
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, please visit www.literacyservicesirc.org or call 772-778-2223.