FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Sept. 21, 2000 CONTACT: Lisa Lacher, (515) 271-3119 DRAKE ADULT LITERACY CENTER SEEKS VOLUNTEERS Imagine a life without written words, signs, books and understanding. Thirty-eight percent of Iowans live with that daily. They read at the lowest literacy levels and frequently live in poverty, according to the U.S. Department of Education's National Center for Education Statistics. This means that they are unable to obtain information from the daily paper, unable to locate items in a department store by reading the postings on the aisles, unable to make choices from a menu, and unable to read mail, including bills. They cannot complete job applications or fill out the forms at the doctor's office. They cannot read a map or drive independently in unfamiliar areas. They cannot enjoy reading with their children or grandchildren or help them with their homework. Without education, they have little hope for a better future. The Drake University Adult Literacy Center is changing that. Volunteers meet with adults at least twice a week to provide one-on-one tutoring, using an interactive, structured, multi-sensory approach. With their help, adult Iowans are motivated to make positive changes in their lives by improving their reading skills. Help someone experience the joy of finally being able to read a book, a menu and street signs. Volunteer to tutor in the Drake Adult Literacy Center by calling (515)-271-3982 or tell someone who wants to read better to call (515)-271-3902.