Literacy Volunteers’ Stories

Every student and tutor at Literacy Volunteers has a story to tell. It is our privilege to share some of their stories below. 

Statement of Support for LVCA's Students, December 2025

"Literacy Volunteers of Charlottesville/Albemarle stands with unwavering support for our students who have been affected by the federal government’s recent immigration policy announcements. These sudden policy changes create uncertainty and fear in our students’ lives, from those seeking asylum, to green card holders, to those in the final stages of the naturalization process. We wholeheartedly condemn this...Our organization is built on the foundational principle that education empowers individuals to reach their true potential. Our students come to us because they believe that citizenship, English, and basic education will improve their lives and their ability to make a home in Charlottesville. We believe in the dignity and integrity of our students. We value them as clients, neighbors, and friends. For forty-two years, our commitment to our students has not changed, nor will it. " Click to read the full statement.

Hope can taste like a cinnamon roll: Ebru's story

"The story of Ebru's bakery is a story of resilience and hope. Reading through her accomplishments for the year, we see how small steps lead to big rewards. She completed a ServSafe Food Handler class, attended meetings at her children's school, helped with homework, volunteered, completed the ServSave Food Handler certification, obtained a second farmers' market booth at Pen Park, purchased a commercial mixer, and added an additional farmers' market location." Click to continue reading.

LVCA former student Juli and her father and current student, L.P.Following in their daughter's footsteps: Juli and L.P.'s story

"When Juli’s parents recently immigrated to America, they followed in their daughter’s footsteps by enrolling in Literacy Volunteers. Juli, a former student, found LVCA when she first arrived to Charlottesville from Colombia. She threw herself into her studies and soon she found herself moving from stocking in a department store to a growing medical career. There, she was able to put her background of chemical engineering to use.  “Learning English opened all the doors for me. I have recommended this place to a lot of my friends.” Click to continue reading.

LVCA student and tutor, Gizem and Erin When conversation creates confidence: Gizem and Erin's story

"It takes courage to open a new business in a new country. It takes courage to speak with customers in a new language. Students like Gizem believe in their hope for a better future, and they know that future success is dependent on literacy. The work that they do at Literacy Volunteers is a critical step in building the business of their future." Click to continue reading.

LVCA student and tutor, D.O. and PatCollaboration can bring transformation: Pat and D.O.'s story

"In just one month, D.O. refined a resume, entered job training, obtained a job, and opened a bank account. As his English improves, he finds every opportunity he can. His tutor, Pat, could not be prouder. "It’s just an incredible opportunity to be working side-by-side, one-on-one with someone that is achieving so many things." Click to continue reading.

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