Michigan's Literacy Crisis
If you're reading this newsletter, count your lucky stars! According to the National Center for Education Statistics, the latest survey (2003) of my county here in Michigan identified a whopping 6% of residents as functionally illiterate. Imagine not being able to read medicine labels, directions, street signs, environmental warnings, food labels, and so much more—especially during this awful pandemic. There is no way to exaggerate the devastating impact illiteracy has on income, health, and social connections.
So for 2020, I've decided to do my part to help. Washtenaw Literacy is a nonprofit committed to eliminating illiteracy in our county. Through their Prep 100 program, I began working with adults who haven't finished high school to help them learn the basic literacy skills they need to move forward. As the name implies, the Prep 100 program provides 100 hours of focused attention in the areas of math, reading, writing, computer skills, and other subjects needed for these students to enter GED programs and launch more promising futures.
Naturally, I was eager to get started imparting all of my glorious wisdom to those less fortunate than me. But, as it turned out, the students I was assigned to have as much to teach me as I have to teach them. Why? Because I'm a committed Jew, and my students are a group of truly extraordinary, devout, Muslim women. (Ever get the feeling someone up there is winking at you?)
Well, my wonderful new friends have shared so much with me about their love of Islam, their prayer lives, and their fascinating culture—it's pretty clear we're all learning from each other. Until a few months ago, we met every week to write in journals, read biographies about inspiring women, and play games to improve vocabulary.
Of course, the current pandemic has made it impossible for us to get together in person. We are trying to start tutoring online, and the organization is focusing on providing weekly Zoom meetings for tutors to strengthen our skills. Unfortunately, many of our students have no access to computers, so we are eagerly awaiting a time when we can get back to our regularly scheduled classes!
The close, personal relationships we've formed has given these eager learners a safe place to take control of their lives and their futures. What an honor it is to work with these amazing women and be a part of Washtenaw Literacy's noble mission!
So what do you think? Maybe YOU could be a tutor too! Visit Get Involved at Washtenaw Literacy to find out how you can open new doors and make wonderful, new friends.