Working Together

Lackawanna County

Interagency Council

Met at: Salvation Army

On:  April 19, 2006

Spring Luncheon

Opening remarks were made by Chris Davis, President.  Each attendee introduced themselves and the agency they represent – over 40 were in attendance.  Chris then introduced our speaker – Diana Statsman from SCOLA Volunteers for Literacy.

Diana stated that for 26 years SCOLA received free rent thanks to the agencies and businesses that provided their space and for many years were located away from downtown Scranton.  This caused transportation problems for their clientele so they recently rented their first building to better serve the community.  They are now located at 2013 Boulevard Avenue, Suite 1, phone 570-346-6203.  Their hours of operation are noon to 8:30 p.m.  Although not downtown, this location is on a bus route. 

We then went on a virtual tour of the building that highlighted their 17 seat computer lab, classrooms, resource library, board room and kitchen.  Area agencies are welcome to use the board room for meetings when not in use.

SCOLA’s biggest need is volunteers to teach reading skills.  Tutors receive 15 hours of training which can be done in your own home via video or DVD.  Another option is to become a conversation partner which only requires one hour of training.  These volunteers meet with ESL students to practice their English skills.  They are also in need of Computer Lab Aides.  Volunteers are paired with students with consideration to where you live, transportation and hours you have available.  They prefer you meet with students twice a week and ask for a one year commitment.

Some statistics:

v     Approximately 20% of adults in Lackawanna County are functionally illiterate – more than 42,000 residents.  Literacy includes reading, writing and math skills. 

v     75% of adult inmates and 60% of teenage delinquents are illiterate

v     Poorer health – they can’t read health related articles.  This also contributes to higher health costs.

v     Inherited – parents who can’t read don’t have books in their home

v     88% are ESL students from 30-35 different countries

v     71% are employed and 59% have high school diplomas

v     Must be at least 16 years of age AND out of school.  Average student is mid 40’s and male

We finished with a little exercise on determining the reading level of our agency materials.  Diana suggested using a 6^th grade reading level for materials for the general public.  Feel free to contact SCOLA for more information.

Respectfully Submitted,

Nancy Kilmer

Secretary