Success Stories
Natalyn's Story
Natalyn has been receiving tutoring in English since 2018. Working a full-time job and making time to study she improved her English language skills with the assistance of her tutor, Carol. As Natalyn progressed in her English language skills, Carol brought up the idea of preparing for the Citizenship exam.
She then began tutoring with Whipp, a specialized citizenship tutor at Literacy Connection. It took another eight months to prepare and send in the application. Finally, on February 24th 2023, Natalyn traveled to Charlotte, met with the immigration officer, passed her exam and earned the status of US Citizen. A proud moment for her and all of us at Literacy Connection.
Roberto's Story
Roberto and Martin meet at the Ingles coffee shop weekly.
In reading through the monthly tutoring report, we have seen tremendous growth in Roberto's English Language acquisition. Even the barista at Starbucks, where they have their weekly sessions, commented on Roberto's improved English skills.
These two have really formed a strong relationship, sometimes forgoing a session to have breakfast together along with Roberto's wife and child.
Roberto is reading novels on his own and a huge accomplishment for his business, he is now creating written estimates and contracts for his landscaping clients. Kudos to Martin and Roberto!
Imelda's Story
Imelda endured many hardships in Mexico, and she and her son and daughter immigrated to the United States. Shortly after moving to the US, her daughter was killed in a car accident. She worked very hard to provide for herself and her son. She came to the Literacy Connection to improve her English language skills with the hope of eventually becoming a US Citizen.
Imelda progressed to the point that she and her tutor felt it was time for her to send in her Citizenship application. Imelda had saved up the money to send in her application, but then her water heater broke, and she had to make a very tough decision. Imelda decided to send in her application because she felt it was more important for her to become a citizen because then she could get a better job and have a better future for herself and her son.
Imelda told us about her decision, and through community partners, such as Interfaith Assistance Ministry, Imelda was able to get a new water heater and help with some of her other household bills. That is determination!
Imelda has now earned her US citizenship as well! She became a citizen on July 18th, 2023.