Centro Latino for Literacy - Helping Generations of Latinos Become Bi-Literate

Centro Latino for Literacy Helping Generations of Latinos Become Bi-Literate

Adelante: 1.2015 p12

Los Angeles Latino Chamber of Commerce

For the past four and a half years Riddle has served as the president and Chief Executive Officer of Centro Latino for Literacy (Centro Latino), a Los Angeles-based nonprofit. She has a take-no-prisoners attitude when it comes to the programs and services offered through the organization.

“Literacy matters for those in our community looking to move ahead,” said Riddle. “Being able to read, write, and function in our text and technology driven world allows individuals to build upon some of the most basic, yet critical, skills employers require.”

Since its opening in 1991, Centro Latino for Literacy has taught nearly 6,000 non-literate working age adults basic grammar, math, and personal finances.

Researchers at the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development found that a mother’s reading skill is the greatest determinant of her child’s future academic success (Oct 2010).

According to SpanishTranslation.US, reading skills among children of Latino decent [sic] are at an all-time low and that U.S. Hispanic children would significantly benefit from programs that promote literacy readiness prior to entering the school system.

Newly literate parents at Centro Latino now help their children with homework, are no longer embarrassed to speak to their children’s teacher or get involved in their schools.

Core components of Centro’s preliteracy courses are Leamos™ (Let’s Read) Basic, Leamos Grammar, and Listos™ (Ready) Math and Financial Education. These courses meet the CA adult content standards for PreESL and have been used successfully by individuals, adult education programs, libraries, and employee training programs.

LALCC’s Inaugural Non Profit Organization Awards: Nov. 14, 2014 (p4)

Winners Are: Rising Star: Centro Latino for Literacy Centro Latino

teaches Latino immigrants to read and write in Spanish (L1), giving them the essential skills and confidence to participate more fully and independently in society, and uplift themselves and their families into more promising lives for generations to come. As of Oct. 31, 2014 Centro Latino has taught Pre-ESL literacy skills, including basic math, grammar, and financial literacy to 5,614 non-literate youth and adults. In addition, ESL, computer skills and job readiness skills have been taught to 9,682 low-income adults at our 8th Street classrooms through education partners.  READ MORE !