As December rolls on, Martin Waymire continues its mission of making Michigan a better place to work and live.
As part of our seventh annual Martin Waymire Gives Project, we will support The Capital Area Literacy Coalition (CALC) with its mission of helping children and adults learn to read, write and speak English.
CALC, also known as The Reading People, is a private, non-profit volunteer literacy organization that believes the ability to read is critical to personal freedom and the maintenance of a democratic society.
LITERACY: A GIFT THAT KEEPS ON GIVING
We often take for granted the ability to proficiently read, write and speak English. While many of us enjoy literacy as a leisure-based activity, literacy is vital to individual and community wellbeing. Through enhancing literacy efforts of community organizations in Lansing and throughout the state, CALC is working towards their ultimate goal of helping individuals achieve self-sufficiency in reading, writing and speaking English.
Unfortunately, Michigan ranks 41st in the nation in literacy. Since it was founded in 1985, CALC has worked to improve this statistic, and the programs it offers have improved many lives and helped people realize their full potential. As one former student noted, “When I was young, I was too stupid to know I was smart.”
CALC offers a variety of literacy programs, including the Read to Succeed program, which teaches children in poverty to read and write. With a 1:1 student to tutor ratio, this program provides children in the greater Lansing area with a unique opportunity to succeed. Through their partnership with the Lansing Public School District, CALC works with those students who may experience challenges in school.
DESIGNS THAT SPARK IMAGINATION
In addition to a $1,000 donation from Martin Waymire, CALC will also receive a designed marketing piece created by our staff. After meeting with members of the organization, we understood CALC’s need for improved informational brochures to increase interest in community involvement, volunteering and donations.
Graphic design specialist Jodi Parker and assistant account executive Natalie Kozma will spearhead the development of the brochure, which will outline each of the different programs offered by the Capital Area Literacy Coalition, include ways to get involved, and engage individuals in need of tutoring.
HOW CAN YOU SUPPORT?
- Donate funds
- Donate children’s books and other supplies
CALC also provides professional training workshops for volunteers to teach others how to read, write and speak English. No prior experience is necessary!
