We regard the ability to read, write, and speak English as critical to personal freedom and the maintenance of a democratic society. Our Mission is three fold:
*To actively promote and advocate literacy;
*To offer literacy services directly to adults whose personal goals may be achieved by increasing their literacy;
*To identify needs in the communities which we serve and to address those needs by providing trained volunteer tutors and other professional services through a variety of programs.

Description:
Literacy Volunteers of Southeastern Fairfield County (LVSFC) teaches adults to read, write and/or speak English. We work with those adults who have the lowest skills-those below the fifth grade level. If the learners do not speak English as their first language, LVSFC works on conversational English. The learning takes place in small groups or one on one.

LVSFC trains and supports volunteers to teach either Basic Literacy (BL) or English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL). The training programs take place over a period of 4 - 6 weeks. After the training, the volunteers are matched with one or more learners to meet on a day and time that is convenient for both the tutor and learner. Tutors and learners work together for two hours per week.

History:
LVSFC was established in 1976. We are affiliated with ProLiteracy America, and are one of 350 nationwide affiliates. There are 14 other affiliates in the State of Connecticut. Through the use of trained volunteers and professionals LVSFC has positively impacted the lives of thousands of Fairfield County residents over the past 25 years.

Contact people:

Jan Galletly, Volunteer Outreach Coordinator, (phone), (email) Pam McRae, ESOL Case Manager, (phone), (email) Mary Agostino, BL Case Manager, (phone), (email)

Office fax number: 203-335-2714

Address:

177 State Street, Third Floor Bridgeport, CT 06604 (See a map)

Web Site: http://www.fswinc.org/Our_Services/literacy.htm

Directions:

From 95 South - Exit 27 bear right at "Y", toward Lafayette Street. Continue straight on Lafaette to State Street. Take a right on State Street. LVA/SFC is about 300 yards on right. From 95 North. . . (more)   Nearest Metro/Subway Stop: Bridgeport Train Station,   Walk distance (in minutes): 5   Nearest Bus Stop: State and Broad Street/ State and Main Street, 2 minute walk

Miscellaneous Information

Is this opportunity appropriate for youth ages 12-17?
	No
Does this program receive United Way funding?
	Yes