LCNV AmeriCorps teachers volunteer at George Mason University’s Alternative Break Program
December 17, 2013 at 4:56 PM | Posted in AmeriCorps, Community, Teaching | Comments Off on LCNV AmeriCorps teachers volunteer at George Mason University’s Alternative Break ProgramTags: AmeriCorps, ESOL, professional development
Recently, LCNV AmeriCorps teachers, Tristen Mimiaga, Xavier Munoz, and Shani Brown, agreed to voluntarily host a teaching workshop for the Alternative Break Program at George Mason University. Here is the back-story from new AmeriCorps teacher, Tristen Mimiaga, on how this came to be:
“I was a member of the Alternative Break Program (AB Program) for two years; one year I only served as a member and the following year as a trip leader. The trips within the AB Program are designed and led by students. The theme/focus of the trip vary – not all trips do the same thing. For my trip in particular our focus was, and still is, education. So, I thought of the idea of providing a workshop for them because during both years there was little guidance available on teaching English at the school with whom we were working. I got in contact with a friend of mine – who happens to be a leader for a trip leaving in January about possibly providing a workshop related to teaching methods/how to teach. So, this is how it came to be.
It ended up being a small workshop with three participants, but they were all very eager to learn and highly engaged. We spoke about the qualities of good and bad teaching (and how to avoid bad teaching), the importance of modeling, how to use different types of dialogues within the classroom especially with various learning levels, and how catering to different learning styles can motivate students and prevent boredom from the sense of repetition.”
Click here to see more photos from the workshop.
Interested in finding out more, email info@lcnv.org or call the office at 703-237-0866.
Literacy Council of Northern Virginia
2855 Annandale Road
Falls Church, VA 22042
www.lcnv.org
Feeding Fairfax Families
January 28, 2013 at 1:25 PM | Posted in Uncategorized | Comments Off on Feeding Fairfax FamiliesTags: AmeriCorps, Loudoun Literacy Council, Reston Interfaith
Since 1994, Congress designated Martin Luther King Jr. Day as a national day of service. As part of our year of serving in AmeriCorps at Loudoun Literacy Council, Carrie Robinson and I participated in the National Day of Service this year on Martin Luther King Jr. Day.
While others enjoyed the day off or watched the inauguration, we met at 9:00 AM at the Shoppers in Herndon, Virginia to volunteer with Fairfax County “Stuff the Bus: Feeding Fairfax Families” for Reston Interfaith. Reston Interfaith’s mission is to help people build more stable lives by connecting them to vital resources that solve their needs for housing, childcare, food or financial assistance. After the holidays, many food pantries in Fairfax County drop to their lowest points. Throughout Fairfax County in January and February, there are food drives to collect food for area nonprofits and food pantries, and Fastran provides the buses to collect donations.
From 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM on Monday, Carrie and I, along with two AmeriCorps members from BEACON for Adult Literacy handed out fliers about the “Stuff the Bus” to shoppers as they entered the grocery store. The fliers had a list of items that shoppers could buy and then donate to Reston Interfaith as they left the store. There were also $5 bags already filled with needed items that shoppers could purchase at the checkout lines, or they could give monetary donations. We also helped to collect donations that were loaded on the bus.
Though our feet were tired after seven hours of standing, we truly enjoyed our experience. First, we were quite surprised by the unexpected generosity of people for buying items while doing their personal shopping, buying the $5 bags if they were in a rush, or giving money on their way out. There was one couple that even bought a cart full of items to donate! Also, we met people who use Reston Interfaith’s Emergency Food Pantry, met people who wanted information on services of Reston Interfaith for their own families, and met people who could barely afford to take care of their own families. One lesson we took away from this experience is to always take time to listen to others giving out information, as sometimes, it is to help people in need. At the end of the day, Carrie and I both bought a bag to help support Reston Interfaith’s food drive.
Overall, our day of service was a reminder of how generous people can be, and a reminder of being humble and appreciating what we have.
Susan Pilley, AmeriCorps Instructor
Loudoun Literacy Council
17 Royal Street SW
Leesburg, VA 20175
National Day of Service 2013
January 22, 2013 at 2:02 PM | Posted in Uncategorized | 1 CommentTags: AmeriCorps, National Day of Service
Martin Luther King, Jr. once said, “I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin, but by the content of their character.” These powerful words have made me reflect about the work that I do and the students that I teach here at the Literacy Council.
Too often in society, individuals and groups are judged based on skin color, language, cultures, and backgrounds. In fact, many would argue that it is simply human nature to judge someone before you even get to know them, or even speak to them. During the Civil Rights Era, in the 1950s and 60s—and certainly prior—negative judgment was heaped upon racial groups; many naively believed that race dictated one’s character, one’s ability, one’s identity. A half-century later, one could argue that we have come a long way, but still have a long way to go.
Thinking about my students, I have no doubt that they may feel similarly judged on a day-to-day basis. Because of their language ability or unique cultural backgrounds, many could arguably see them as lesser in character, in ability, or in identity.
After meeting many of our students and building growing relationships with them, I am adamant in the belief that they should not be seen in a negative lens because of their language or cultural background. On the contrary, I, like King, have a hope that these unique backgrounds will one day be praised for the depth it can add to one’s character, instead of being derided. I hope that my students will live in a world where they can be respected for what they have to offer and not be hindered by their language ability. Our students are often an untapped resource in our community simply bursting with potential. In the words of King, they deserve to live in a world in which they are judged only on the “content of their character.”
In honor of Martin Luther King Jr. Day, I had the opportunity to serve during the National Day of Service, a day in which people get out and give back to the community. I served with my fellow AmeriCorps members at A-SPAN, an Arlington emergency shelter. We were given the tasks of organizing their donated clothing, cleaning the facilities, and making peanut butter and jelly sandwiches for their clients. During this time, I had the chance to reflect on both why I teach and on character. On the former point, I feel that my mission and passion is to help people and make a difference. I am thankful to be living in this great nation and for the opportunity to serve with AmeriCorps and make a positive difference in many lives. On the latter point, I realized that if only people focused on character, and not on judgment, days like the National Day of Service could be far more widespread and impact so many more. If judgments were left at the door, people would be willing to shatter barriers that we spend so much time building up, and join hands with those around them in the service of others.
I appreciate the bravery of Martin Luther King Jr. and the courage of his actions. I appreciate his drive and determination to break down discriminatory barriers. His resounding words have given a voice to so many, like my students, who may be marginalized and judged. For this simple fact, his actions will always be remembered.
Katie Trizna, AmeriCorps Instructor
Literacy Council of Northern Virginia
2855 Annandale Rd., Falls Church, VA 22042
www.lcnv.org
LCNV’s Successful AmeriCorps Program
January 20, 2013 at 7:00 AM | Posted in Uncategorized | Comments Off on LCNV’s Successful AmeriCorps ProgramTags: AmeriCorps
In the first 100 days of the first term of his administration, President Obama signed the Edward M. Kennedy Serve America Act – the boldest national service legislation since the era of FDR. The bill promised to more than triple AmeriCorps from 75,000 to 250,000 AmeriCorps by 2017, to grow Senior Corps, and to advance impact volunteerism and proven social innovation.
LCNV applies for AmeriCorps funding through a competitive grant process with the Virginia State Office of the Corporation for National and Community Service, which allows four AmeriCorps members the opportunity to serve at LCNV. Without this funding, 12 class locations would lose their lead teachers, thousands of service hours worth of ESOL curriculum development, data entry, community outreach, and volunteer management would vanish, and the number of adult learners the program could reach would drop by more than half. And that is just at the Literacy Council of Northern Virginia! Check out this article on huffingtonpost.com to find out what would happen nationwide if AmeriCorps was eliminated.
Additionally, LCNV uses its capacity to serve as the applicant and fiscal agent for this grant to benefit Loudoun Literacy Council (LLC) and BEACON for Adult Literacy in Prince William County, securing four more AmeriCorps members – two to serve with LLC and two to serve with BEACON. All three organizations recruit AmeriCorps members in March of each year who will serve for one year (September to August) as lead classroom instructors, teaching the basic skills of reading, writing, speaking, and understanding English. AmeriCorps members are fully trained and have the opportunity to supervise volunteers, collaborate with site partners, and participate substantively in organizational management.
In his 2012 victory speech, President Obama said: “The role of ‘citizen’ in our democracy does not end with your vote. America has never been about what can be done for us. It’s about what can be done by us, together.” Let’s hope that with our efforts we can ensure the future of National Service Programs so that generations to come can continue on with the proud tradition of “Getting Things Done” for America.
If you or someone you know would like more information about AmeriCorps and how to apply, visit www.americorps.gov and submit your application to the Literacy Council of Northern Virginia program. Contact us directly at americorps@lcnv.org in case of inquiries.
Rachel Martin, AmeriCorps Instructor, and Suzie Eaton, Senior Director of Development
Literacy Council of Northern Virginia
2855 Annandale Rd., Falls Church, VA 22042
www.lcnv.org
LCNV Students Learn about Civics & Community
November 5, 2012 at 8:00 AM | Posted in ESOL, Teaching | 1 CommentTags: AmeriCorps, citizenship, civic engagement, esol learners, naturalization ceremony, USCIS
As an AmeriCorps instructor for LCNV, I try to provide a place for adult students to experience English. In this regard, October 11 was a gift – I was able to bring my students to one of two Naturalization Ceremonies, which the James Lee Community Center hosted. A new LCNV student, Candida, participated in the ceremony and is now an American citizen! The Naturalization Ceremony compliments the curriculum in LCNV’s Civics and Community term:
Where are you from? What’s your name? What languages do you speak? Speaking about basic personal information is a crucial life skill. At the beginning of the term, my class also practiced this skill to build a sense of community. We weren’t learning English alone; we were learning English with peers from eight different countries and five different language backgrounds. Before reciting the Oath of Allegiance, naturalization candidates stand when their home countries are called. There’s no mistaking what it means for individuals, who hail from dozens of countries, to initially stand separated by country, then as one as U.S. citizens.
But what is a “citizen”? When we practiced filling out forms with basic personal information, my class profiled important American figures and world leaders. Some students became familiar with President Obama, Governor Mitt Romney, and Governor Bob McDonnell for the first time. When the ceremony prompted the question of what it means to be a citizen, we demonstrated how a person with U.S. citizenship can elect Barack Obama or Mitt Romney this November for president.
Even further, the ceremony motivated two of my students to share that they too want to pass the citizenship test – a chance to avail them of LCNV’s tutoring services. Events like the Naturalization Ceremony are English-in-action, illustrating ways to expand LCNV lessons and activities into the Northern Virginia community.
Gratitude must go to the James Lee Community Center for co-hosting the Naturalization Ceremonies with LCNV, and to the US Citizenship and Immigration Services for permitting our classes to join in the celebratory occasion.
Xavier Muñoz, AmeriCorps Instructor
Literacy Council of Northern Virginia
2855 Annandale Rd., Falls Church, VA 22042
(703) 237-0866 x 108
http://www.lcnv.org
Last Chance to Register for RACE FOR A CAUSE!
October 9, 2012 at 10:30 AM | Posted in AmeriCorps, Announcements, Class, Development, ESOL, Family Learning, Teaching, Tutoring, Volunteers | Comments Off on Last Chance to Register for RACE FOR A CAUSE!Tags: 1 Mile Fun Run, 8k, acumen solutions, alumni, AmeriCorps, americorps partners, announcement, Announcements, arlington race, Basic Adult Literacy, Boy and Girls Club, Children, community, Fairfax Education, family event, family fun, Family Learning, for love of children, friends, give, giving, Greenbrier Learning Center, James Lee Community Center, literacy, literacy council, literacy council of northern virginia, local superheroes, north quincy street, October 14th, Our Daily Bread, race for a cause, run for local charities, run or walk, select the non-profit of your choice, students, The Reading Connection, the women's center, the women's centert, united for d.c., Volunteer, volunteers, you get to be a superhero too, young playwright's theatre
Don’t miss your chance to sign up to support the Literacy Council of Northern Virginia for the Acumen Solutions™ Race for a Cause 8K and 1 Mile Fun Run, which takes place this Sunday, October 14, 2012, in Arlington.
This a great event with a “super” post race event, which includes yummy food from Anita’s, Chidogo’s, and Whole Foods, as well as fun kids activities AND awesome raffle prizes for “big” kids (must be present to win)! Come support our local Superheroes. We encourage you to sport your favorite “superhero” attire! Don’t have a cape? Acumen Solutions will also be providing capes to all youth registrants!
We still need 40 registrants to be eligible for race proceeds. YOU can help us reach our goal! Join our walking literacy team?
Not in town? Sponsor a friend or family member as a runner! Every donation – big or small – helps support our cause. Please call or email Suzie Eaton (seaton@lcnv.org) with any questions and go to www.theraceforacause.com to sign up!
Registration Costs
- 8k: $35 through October 13
- $40 Race Day
- 1 Mile Fun Run: $20 Youth (no shirt; gift will be provided!);$35 Adult (8k technical T-shirt)
Registration Packet Pickup @ Potomac River Running Store, Arlington:
- Friday October 12, 4-8 pm
- Saturday October 13, 11 am – 4 pm
- Sunday October 14 (Race Day), 6:30 am – 7:30 am
Literacy Council of Northern Virginia
2855 Annandale Road
Falls Church, Va 22042
(703)237-0866
www.LCNV.org
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Race for a Cause is this Sunday!
October 12, 2012 at 3:29 PM | Posted in AmeriCorps, Announcements, Class, Development, ESOL, Family Learning, Teaching, Tutoring, Volunteers | Comments Off on Race for a Cause is this Sunday!Tags: 1 Mile Fun Run, 8k, acumen solutions, alumni, AmeriCorps, americorps partners, announcement, Announcements, arlington race, Basic Adult Literacy, Biggest Loser, Boy and Girls Club, Children, Class, community, Development, ESOL, Fairfax Education, family event, family fun, Family Learning, Family Learning | Leave a comment Edit this post Tags: give, for love of children, friends, giving, Greenbrier Learning Center, James Lee Community Center, literacy, literacy council, literacy council of northern virginia, local superheroes, north quincy street, October 14th, Our Daily Bread, race for a cause, run for local charities, run or walk, select the non-profit of your choice, Sione Fa, students, The Reading Connection, the women's center, the women's centert, tutoring, united for d.c., Volunteer, volunteers, you get to be a superhero too, young playwright's theatre
Online registration is closed BUT you can still sign up in person at the Potomac River Running store in Arlington; don’t forget to select the Literacy Council of Northern Virginia as your charity. If you go to Potomac River Running today and sign up, you could meet Sione Fa from The Biggest Loser!
Packet pickup and registration times follow:
The race will be just off Quincy Street at the intersection of Quincy and Wilson Blvd; use the Potomac River Running Store (3924 Wilson Blvd) as your “address”. Participants will warm up at approximately 7:40 AM, with guest Sione Fa. The 8k race starts at 8:00 AM. The Fun Run will start at approximately 8:06 AM. There will be a fun post event, which includes good food and a raffle prize give away.
Come support local Superheroes like the Literacy Council – costumes are encouraged! Acumen Solutions will provide capes to all youth registrants!
Hope to see you this Sunday.
Literacy Council of Northern Virginia
2855 Annandale Road
Falls Church, Va 22042
(703)237-0866
www.LCNV.org