Lake Land College in Mattoon, Illinois was awarded an $8,500 grant by the Dollar General Literacy Foundation. The grant aims to support adult literacy in English Language Acquisition classes. As part of their larger initiative, the Foundation donated over $13 million in a single day to support adult, family, and summer literacy programs across 47 states where Dollar General operates.
The English language acquisition classes at Lake Land College help non-native speakers develop the skills necessary to function in American society. The program offers immersive courses focusing on conversational English, phonics, and written and oral reports. Students' progress is monitored through assessments, with the goal of improving their English speaking and listening skills for successful employment.
Shannon McGregor, the director of adult and alternative education at Lake Land College, expressed gratitude for the grant, mentioning the various locations where ESL classes are offered. She emphasized that attending the classes is free, thanks to funding primarily provided by an ICCB Adult Education and Family Literacy grant. The Dollar General grant will contribute to purchasing necessary items and introducing new resources to enhance the student's learning experience.
Denine Torr, the executive director of the Dollar General Literacy Foundation, celebrated the grant announcement during the Foundation's 30th anniversary year. Torr highlighted the Foundation's mission of providing access to literacy skills for all, stating that the grants inspire reading and build brighter futures.
The Dollar General Literacy Foundation supports organizations that increase access to educational programming and promote innovative instructional methods. They fund adult, family, summer, and youth literacy programs, with preference given to organizations located within a 15-mile radius of a Dollar General store or distribution center. The Foundation also offers a student referral program for individuals interested in literacy services, providing information online and through referral cards available at Dollar General stores.
