Frequently Asked Questions

Have a question and can’t find the answer? Email us!

How many people in our area have low literacy skills?

In our region there are

9,000+ functionally illiterate adults
14,000 adults without a high school diploma
5,000 foreign nationals (and growing)
Many Virginians over age 25 who have seriously limited literacy skills (about 20%)!

How does LVCA’s program work?

Here’s a brief description of the typical steps we follow to match a learner with a tutor.

Intake interview and confidential assessment of each learner
Identification of the learner’s personal goals
Learner begins independent computer-based learning while waiting for tutor “match”
Learner is provided one-on-one tutoring for two hours a week (usually at the LVCA office or other public space)
Tutor is provided initial student-appropriate suggestions for curriculum from staff
Tutor regularly checks in with LVCA staff for support and guidance; regularly provides a progress update on student
Learner is retested and assessed for progress on a regular basis

What are your funding sources?

We rely on a variety of generous supporters:

Individual Donors
Fundraising Events (Wordplay)
Government grants: Virginia Department of Education, City of Charlottesville, Albemarle County
Area Organizations: Throughout the years, we've received funding from the United Way of Greater Charlottesville, BAMA Works Foundation, Charlottesville/Albemarle Community Foundation, Virginia Literacy Foundation, churches, clubs, and other private foundations

I want to donate. How does my donation help?

Every dollar helps. But to give you a sense of the power of those dollars:

How can I get involved?

We’re so happy you asked! There are a few ways you can join our team: