GLENS FALLS - In an old house on Glen Street, a man sits with his tutor after practicing vocabulary flash cards. He seems extremely satisfied with his progress, as does his tutor. After attending the program at Literacy NENY for six months, his reading has improved immensely.

He explained that he quit school when he was 16, so all he knows is working, and is tired putting him down. He also elaboarates that he wants to get a degree so he can do something "less back-breaking".

This particular student participates in a program for people who would like to improve their reading comprehension to a high school level, a program called the Wilson reading program, which is aimed at basic level readers who read at a fourth grade level or below. This student says that he practices by reading to his small children and reading the Bible.

Each student who comes to Literacy NENY has a different story. The needs of each student are taken in consideration when they are matched with their tutors. Mary DuRoss Cole, who is the program coordinator, says that good matches are key to a student's success.

"Sometimes, the matches don't work out as well as we hope, for whatever reason," she explained. "But when they do ... man, those students really take off. Their progress is incredible."

Many students who attend the programs also have goals of attaining their General Education Diploma. One student, Lynne, said that she would like to get her G.E.D. because she wants to work with the disabled so that she can afford them the same opportunities she has had. Other students come to Literacy NENY because they are struggling with the language.

"Not speaking or understanding the language can be very isolating," said Fran Cartmell, a volunteer who works with a woman who immigrated to the U.S. from South America. "She wants to make friends, and have a social life with others beside her husband, but the language barrier really prevents that."

The student explained that she cannot get anything above an entry-level job because she cannot speak the language. She takes part in the ESOL program, which works with persons who use English as a second language. Starting this fall, Literacy NENY will offer ESOL classes in Glens Falls, adding to the success of the program in Saratoga. The program is geared toward people who can understand English, but have trouble expressing themselves in the language.

The non-profit works hard to get their name out there. They are currently promoting Literacy Awareness Month with a launch on Sept. 7 at Wilton Mall, and will be holding an information booth and exhibit at Aviation Mall on Sept. 14.

"Getting our name out there is so important," explained Cole.

"Without volunteers, the dreams of our students are hindered."

©The Post Star 2008