An Adult Learner's Story
"I knew that I couldn't read. And
one day in a job interview, the lady had me read a paragraph. I couldn't get through it so she recommended Project READ and I came right on down.
I was really frightened when I got there because I didn't know what to expect. But she was so nice. I thought everyone would be looking at me because I couldn't read, but she made me feel comfortable.
I had been going through life without reading... and then I finally just said, "I need help." I always wanted to read. I remember in the 8th grade they had tapes and a headset. I tried that, but it didn't work. So I kind of covered it up. It's so easy for people who can't read to say "no problem" because they don't want to deal with it anyway.
Before, I was limited by reading abilities. Now I have a dream of doing something. I'm an assistant teacher at my church and I am currently studying to get my GED. Being able to pick up a newspaper or a magazine or to read my own words right now makes me confident. I wouldn't trade this for nothing in the world.
If there are people out there thinking about volunteering I would tell them not to hesitate and to get in there and help someone."
Project READ
Redwood City Public Library
Project READ, 1044 Middlefield Road, Redwood City, CA 94063
Phone: (650)780-7077 ... FAX: (650)780-7004
www.projectread-redwoodcty.org
