The $16,338 in federal American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding that was awarded to Tri-County Literacy Center by the Warren County Board of Supervisors was just a small portion of the $12.4 million in ARPA money that Warren County received.
But that relatively small amount of funding has had a big impact for Tri-County Literacy Center of Glens Falls in 2024, helping 58 Warren County residents better their literacy skills, while improving Tri-County Literacy’s ability to adapt to current and future needs.
Tri-County Literacy Center of Glens Falls was one of 28 non-profits that received grants from Warren County’s ARPA allocation, grants that ranged from $5,400 (Charles Wood Theater) to $750,000 (Glens Falls Hospital.) Find full details here.
Roseann Anzalone, Executive Director of Tri-County Literacy Center, said the funds allowed her agency to improve their ability to recruit and retain volunteers through improved use of technology, establishing a YouTube channel, a website for literacy tutors and holding gatherings for individuals who have sought assistance.
She said having one place where tutors can get information that they need and links to web-based support materials for their educational sessions has made lesson preparation much easier.
Gatherings for program participants have helped as well. Individuals who lack literacy or English Language skills often shy away from social interaction for a variety of reasons, which can cause depression and anxiety that can make it difficult for them to obtain or hold jobs, Anzalone explained.
“Once a month we get learners and tutors together at Crandall Library to create an opportunity that allows learners to develop the social skills they need to help relieve some of that depression and anxiety. We have seen some friendships develop from this activity. I believe this has helped with learner retention,” Anzalone explained.
Tri-County Literacy Center can provide a variety of assistance to those who are looking to improve their basic literacy skills, learn English as a second language or prepare for a high school equivalency degree.
“Some of our learners are looking for specific help, such as wanting to pass the written part of the driver's test or being able to read and write enough to obtain a specific job. Some have long-term needs, like passing the GED exam or learning English as their new language,” Anzalone said.
Tri-County Literacy is recruiting more volunteer tutors, if you are interested in helping. More information can be found at trilitcenter.org or by calling 519-793-7414.