For a number of years, on a given Wednesday morning at the Presbyterian Church in Rochelle, you may find a host of retired educators volunteering through teaching and tutoring. Their students are members of the community who are interested in improving their English language skills in an effort to become more integrated into the community.
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Dear Editor,
For a number of years, on a given Wednesday morning at the Presbyterian Church in Rochelle, you may find a host of retired educators volunteering through teaching and tutoring. Their students are members of the community who are interested in improving their English language skills in an effort to become more integrated into the community.
I have seen first-hand the pride these students take in their accomplishments and the bonds they form with their volunteer teachers and mentors. What a joy it was to learn about Delia and Rosa. As their skill improved over four years, they each decided to begin preparing for a quest to become a citizen of our country. They participated in the classroom sessions regularly and used their tutored time to study for the citizens test. After a lot of diligent work on the part of the student and the tutors, they both passed their tests and are now U.S. citizens.
This story — along with the countless others like it — demonstrates the importance of community foundations in this country, which are uniquely situated to improve their regions through supporting innovative solutions and creating powerful partnerships. From Nov. 12 to 18 we celebrate Community Foundation Week, a time when we can share and reflect on the stories of impact over the last year. Though you may not yet know your local community foundation, you’ve likely felt its impact.