The page cannot be foundThe page you are looking for might have been removed, had its name changed, or is temporarily unavailable.Please try the following:
HTTP Error 404 - File or directory not found.
|
Adult Literacy Center
The Mission
The goal of the Adult Literacy Center is to improve literacy, resulting in enhanced self-esteem, daily living, and life-long learning. Utilizing volunteers, the DUALC improves the quality of adults' lives by helping them learn to read, write and comprehend.
The Adult Literacy Center has been part of the Drake University School of Education since 1976. The Center is staffed by volunteers from the Drake and greater Des Moines communities who are dedicated to literacy and community outreach.
Imagine a life without reading. Literacy Center students have these experiences:
“I know I can learn. I’ve never been given the chance.”
“I cannot read street signs or maps. I want to pass a driving test.”
“I am not sure if I have read my medicine instructions correctly.”
“I wish I could read to my grandchildren.”
“I cannot even help my first grader with her homework.”
“I read so slow, I get frustrated.”
“I just want to be normal at school.”
“I was afraid to hold my head up and look people in the eye.”
“If I could read and write, I could do anything.”
The Adult Learners
Persons served by the Literacy Center represent a cross-section of ethnicity and come mainly from lower income brackets. Reading skills range from pre-reading to approximately fourth grade.
- Each year, over 100 adults receive literacy services.
- Currently, 70 adult students are being tutored. Many others are on a waiting list.
- Students are eager to learn so they can improve their job, school, and home responsibilities.
- 70% of the adult students are employed. They hold jobs that require only basic reading skills.
- 15% are learning English as a second language.
- On average, students remain in the program for 2 years.
- Students pay only a $10.00 materials fee.
To enroll for tutoring, call 271-3982 to schedule an interview and brief assessment.
The Tutors
All tutors are volunteers who meet for 2 one-hour, one-to-one sessions each week at the Adult Literacy Center. They each receive 9 hours of training in multi-sensory, structured teaching of word structure for reading and spelling. Tutors have flexible hours, Mon.–Thurs. 8:00 a.m.- 8:00 p.m. and Fri. 8:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
Requirements and qualifications to be a tutor include:
- learns independently within a given stricture
- works effectively with persons from diverse backgrounds
- communicates respect for others
- recognizes and adapts to the needs of the student
- continues with student for at least one semester; one year commitment preferred
- maintains confidentiality about student
- maintains professional conduct at all times
- follows the Adult Literacy Center's stated mission, policies and procedures
Our tutors tell us they enjoy many benefits from the tutoring experience:
“My student told me that he does not feel stupid at work anymore.”
“I can see my student gaining confidence and self-esteem.”
“Seeing Bill’s struggle first-hand, I learned to take things one step at a time.”
“I really feel like I am contributing.”
“I've learned to celebrate the little victories.”
“Tutoring at the Adult Literacy Center is a valuable part of my life.”
Volunteer Tutor Resources
- Capture student success by clicking here
- Report tutoring hours by clicking here
- Download a tutor application by clicking here
The Sponsors
The Literacy Center is supported by:
- Dollar General Literacy Foundation
- Polk County
- Prairie Meadows
- Contributions from local individuals and businesses
Advisory Council
- Cate Bremer
- Kerwin dobbins
- Ted Economos
- Shelley Fairbairn
- Marcia Martin
- Jean Mineart
- Leslie Nelson
- Steven Pritchard
- Kay Runner
- Jill Southworth
- Michelle Zeiser
Contact us
Drake University
Adult Literacy Center
School of Education
3206 University Avenue
Des Moines Iowa, IA 50311
Anne Murr, Coordinator
(515) 271-3982
anne.murr@drake.edu
For more information, please visit http://ncsall.gse.harvard.edu/fob/2001/murr.html.
National Association for Adults with Special Learning Needs: www.naasln.org
National Coalition for Literacy: www.national-coalition-literacy.org
Iowa Literacy Resource Center: www.readiowa.org
Voice for Adult Literacy United to Educate: www.valueusa.org
Commission on Adult Basic Education: www.coabe.org
