Amanda, a 37 year old student at Okanagan College, is currently studying to become a human service worker. Overcoming her obstacles to learning, Amanda is dedicated to supporting others to surmount theirs.
Amanda was diagnosed with a learning disability which affects her retention and testing abilities. To be successful at school, she requires different methods of learning which is why she sought the help of a tutor. Amanda found out about Project Literacy through the Disability Coordinator at the college and was partnered with a tutor who could help with her individualized needs. Amanda utilizes a tutor to help her with essay writing, problem solving and research.
Amanda explains that without the help of Project Literacy she would not be where she is at today. Her tutor has helped her realize she can achieve anything. Most notably, she was able to pass several very difficult courses last year. Prior to coming to Project Literacy Amanda felt stuck and was not confident in her own abilities. She explains how she was continuously encouraged by Project Literacy staff and volunteers along the way. That helped with her success.
Amanda appreciates the value of the tutoring sessions since she went to college in her 20’s. However she did not have the support she needed so she ended up dropping out. This only added to her fear of returning to college a second time, but Project Literacy assisted her in taking the necessary steps forward. The staff members and tutor helped guide her to the right program at the college. She was also connected to resources in the community which helped support the funding for the program.
Amanda is now in her first year of the Human Service Worker Program and enjoys being at college this time around. She is confident in her abilities and knows that she is on the road to fulfill her dreams of being able to make a difference in someone else’s life. Her future goals are to graduate from the Human Service Worker Program. She would like to work in the mental health field as an advocate for people with mental illnesses and disabilities.
Amanda recommends Project Literacy’s services to other students who require additional support in their academics because the environment supports learning. Furthermore, the people there are very helpful and positive. She also describes the individualized tutoring as a strength of the organization.
“Everyone is kind and thoughtful at Project Literacy; they have helped me to succeed. Without tutoring I would not be in school, taking the steps I have taken so far. Having Project Literacy and endless encouragement has helped bring new energy into my life. My future looks brighter.” – Amanda
Project Literacy matches tutors with learners based upon the tutor’s abilities and education and the learner’s needs. This customized process has allowed for the success of the organization, not only by attracting and retaining qualified tutors, but most importantly, by providing the support the learners require.
Project Literacy relies upon the generosity of donors, volunteers, tutors and staff. The organization could not have celebrated its 30th anniversary this past September without this support.