Literacy initiative improves opportunities for non-native speakers

A literacy program launched in Rehoboth 20 years ago by a handful of volunteers has transformed into a life-changing, countywide educational experience for the area’s non-native speakers.

In 2003, Lutheran Church of Our Savior members recognized a need for an English as a Second Language program in eastern Sussex County, said Community ESL Advisory Board Chair Kate Cauley.

Volunteers studied successful ESL programs and secured funding for the outreach ministry that launched in January 2004 at the church. From the original two teachers, a few church volunteers and 45 students, the program has since expanded. 

Now, more than 40 volunteer teachers throughout the county work with about 150 students a year in curriculums targeted for beginning to advanced English speakers. 

In addition to the Lutheran Church of Our Savior, classes are held at Milford Public Library, Beebe Lewes Campus and online in partnership with Lewes Public Library. 

The program is funded primarily through private donations and grants, and the support of dine and donate events at area restaurants. Its annual budget is $60,000. Students pay an administrative fee of $25; no students are denied admission due to inability to pay.

Students range in age from 18 to 72 and have hailed from 30 different countries, including Venezuela, Russia, Thailand, Belarus, Haiti, Chile, Vietnam and Ukraine, said Community ESL Advisory Board Communications Chair and volunteer teacher Missy Ludlum. 

“We’re able to learn about different cultures,” Ludlum said, noting her Belarusian student has continually assisted her Ukrainian student in the classroom. “It shows us what the world could be like if we took the chance to get to know each other.”

Community ESL Program Director Denise Jacono said the advanced-level students are incredibly fluent. Many came to America with multiple secondary degrees.

“There’s a lot of talent here,” she said. “They need English to get ahead, and that’s where we come in.”

Creating positive connections with students makes a difference, Jacono said. 

“Building relationships and rapport helps them navigate and lets them know they belong here,” Jacono said.

Ludlum said her students are motivated, patient and compassionate with each other.

“Their dedication amazes me,” Ludlum said. “I learn from them every time I come into the classroom.”

20th anniversary campaign

In January, ESL Program Advisory Board members announced a 20th anniversary fundraising campaign with a $50,000 goal. Before the public launch, board members pledged $7,000, and the Lutheran Church of Our Savior donated $5,000. Donors will be recognized at ascending donation levels from $50 to $5,000.

Rita Stevens, co-founder and vice president for operations of Vantage Point Retirement Living, is chairing the campaign.  

Stevens made an initial contribution of $10,000 to the campaign and will be working with area businesses to garner support for the program as leaders establish a fund with the Delaware Community Foundation to ensure long-term fiscal sustainability. 

Additionally, Vantage Point will host a fundraising event, Around the World with ESL, showcasing The Lodge at Historic Lewes in September.

“It’s important for our business to be integrated into this community,” Stevens said.

The ticketed event will highlight the food, cultures and experiences of the program’s students, who hail from all over the world, Stevens said.

Stevens said the feeling of inclusion fostered by the organization’s dedicated volunteers resonated with her.

“It’s nice to see a grassroots effort take off,” she said.

Additionally, she said, there is a benefit in helping people learn English so they can expand their career possibilities within local businesses.

“It’s just helping people who want something better in their lives,” she said, noting that getting involved is a way to treat others the way you would want to be treated. 

For more information, to volunteer or to donate with the Community ESL program, go to lcosrehoboth.org/esl-program. Contact Kate Cauley at katherine.luisa@gmail.com or 937-469-1695 to support the campaign.  

Upcoming events

20th Anniversary Celebration Cultural Fair
12 to 4 p.m., Saturday, May 4
The Lutheran Church of Our Savior
20276 Bay Vista Drive, Rehoboth

Around the World with ESL
4 tp 7 p.m., Wednesday, Sept. 18
The Lodge at Historic Lewes
1008 Kings Highway, Lewes