The Literacy Council of Northern Virginia's partnership with AmeriCorps began in 1999 and has grown since then to include placement of members at neighboring Loudoun Literacy Council. See our blog Literacy Live! to read more about our members' experiences in their own words.
"Serving with Americorps has been life-changing on many levels. My students, many of whom have multiple jobs or are working mothers, inspire me every day with their dedication, hard work, and boundless optimism. My work with the Literacy Council continues to teach me valuable job skills and life lessons, and has given me opportunities for engagement and leadership not found in typical entry-level positions. Because of my experiences this year, I feel prepared to advance in the work force and inspired to continue a life of service."
—Karen
"My AmeriCorps service year with the Literacy Council of Northern Virginia has been an amazing and unforgettable experience so far. It's an unbelievable feeling seeing your students progressing through the course of the year and knowing that you had a hand in their English development. I've learned so many new skills from the caring, compassionate members and volunteers who devote themselves to helping the community develop English reading, writing, and speaking skills."
—Chuck
"Just recently, I had a student come to class with news of a job offer. The whole class erupted in applause and congratulations. It was inspirational and touching to see her joy as well as her peers' genuine happiness for her."
—Asmait
"I have absolutely loved my time as an AmeriCorps member at the Literacy Council of Northern Virginia. I have received professional experience and have been entrusted with responsibility on a variety of projects."
—Courtney
"At Loudoun we have a small staff and limited resources, but we don't let that stop us from trying to do big things. We continually evaluate and revise our growing ESOL classroom and tutoring programs to ensure the best educational experience for our students. This term we are experimenting with an expansion of class locations and class lengths, doubling the available hours of instruction. It is truly a pleasure to work with the talented, passionate staff of both LLC and LCNV, and it's been a great privilege to teach. I'm convinced that our students are some of the nicest and most interesting people in the world, and they have enriched my life probably more than they can imagine. "
—Dave
"Teaching through the Literacy Council of Northern Virginia has been an enormously enlightening experience. Not only do I feel a stronger connection to the immediate community, but my students have taught me a great deal about lifestyles, culture, and language around the world."
—Kristen
"I couldn't have found a better way to serve. As an AmeriCorps member at the Literacy Council of Northern Virginia, I learn from the warmest and brightest people serving the most gracious students."
—Katie
