OUR PROGRAMS
In our adult literacy programs, volunteers provide one-on-one tutoring and small class instruction to students at no cost. Educational materials and literacy resources are provided. Class levels include: survival skills English, pre-literacy language development, and beginning reading.As students gain literacy skills and confidence, they may choose continue on to more advanced ESL classes offered by Western Piedmont Community College.
PROJECT FLOWER
Helping English language learners how to read, write, and speak English. Through a collaborative effort between Burke County Literacy Council, Burke County Smart Start, Burke County United Way and Greenway, new residents are able to attend weekly ESL classes in a safe, comfortable, and supportive environment. Trained community volunteers provide one-to-one or small group instruction to students at no cost. Transportation and child care are available to Project Flower participants.
MOTHEREAD/FATHEREAD
Mother/Fatheread combines the teaching of literacy skills with child development and family empowerment issues. The approach teaches the "why" of reading as well as the "how" and uses books to strengthen the bonds between parent and child. Class sites include Steps Academy (BCPS), Burke/Catawba Jail (Motheread only), Burke County Public Library, Early Headstart, Project FLOWER and Western Piedmont Community College.
EACH ONE TEACH ONE
A program that provides free and confidential tutoring to Burke County citizens who want to learn to read or to improve their literacy skills. The Literacy Council recruits and trains volunteer tutors and provides both books and a place to study.
REACH OUT & READ
Making early literacy part of pediatric primary care. The Literacy Council provides children’s books to participating pediatricians who give a new, developmentally appropriate, book to each child from birth to fiver years old at his/her well check visits. Through Reach Out & Read, every child starts school with a home library of at least 10 children’s books and parents know that reading aloud is the most important thing they can do to help their children learn to love books.