Since the implementation of the Charlotte County Literacy Program in 1986, improving adult literacy in Charlotte County has been a goal.

Now known as the Charlotte Adult Learning Center, the program continues to focus on the mission of helping illiterate adults in the county and surrounding areas.

As a Charlotte County native, I take pride in having roots in a county that places an importance on helping those in need achieve their educational goals.

According to information from the center, “the Charlotte Adult Learning Center offers testing that establishes the literacy abilities for those persons who have personal goals to improve their reading abilities.”

I applaud the many tutors and volunteers who work with these individuals on a daily basis. Not only is this a selfless act of giving back to the community, but it is a testament to the strength of our community as a unit.

Just this past weekend, the center held a fall carnival to promote literacy. The Center’s Executive Director Lonnie Calhoun III said “We are creating an annual awareness event. It’s about the opportunities and challenges of literacy.”

While there are many people in our county and surrounding areas who struggle with illiteracy, the Center is doing their part to make sure patrons have a chance at reaching their goals.

Program Manager Joyce Nelson said the Center currently offers classes to promote reading and some math, including basic computer literacy, English for speakers of other languages, writing, public speaking, money management and more.

A big thank you goes out to the Charlotte Adult Learning Center for providing such a valuable tool and resource in our community. Without a doubt, the center has been a life changing fixture for Charlotte County.

Italia Gregory is community editor of The Gazette. Her email address is Italia.Gregory@TheCharlotteGazette.com.