Changing Lives -- Building Futures
Project Learn to Read of San Antonio (PLR) is a non-profit (501c3) organization serving the literacy needs of San Antonio's adult population. We target persons 16 years and older who function at a 0 to 5th grade level and/or have learning differences. PLR also serves court appointed 15 year olds who are not in other federally funded programs.
PLR empowers San Antonio's least educated adults and older youth by developing their reading, writing, speaking, and listening and comprehension, so they can create better lives for themselves and their families. As students gain competence and confidence, they become more productive in the workplace. They are better able to care for their families, participate in community life, and contribute to the economy.
PLR provides beginning level learners with one-on-one instruction in Basic Literacy and/or small group instruction for English as a Second Language (ESL). In tandem with helping individual students develop and enhance their basic literacy or ESL skills, PLR also provides instruction in the use of a computer. Instruction includes the development of general typing skills as well as instruction in Microsoft Word and Excel. This helps to encourage more regular attendance as well as to prepare students for the use of technology in the workplace.
Experienced adult educators and trained volunteers make it possible for adults who have waited a lifetime to acquire basic literacy skills needed for today's workforce, to receive the higher level of individual attention and special services which they need in order to succeed.
Students and volunteers are recruited by word of mouth, referrals from other agencies, information booths at community events, and media announcements. Staff (currently volunteers) and the PLR board of directors perform intake, assessment, training, management and support for students and volunteers. Tutors help students read job applications, workplace materials, drivers manuals, labels, and letters.
Students learn to fill out forms, write checks, pass driver's license and work-related examinations, as they acquire the skills needed to achieve their goals. With the help of trained volunteers and carefully selected materials and technology, students master basic word recognition skills, phonics, reading comprehension, spelling, writing, language, and math.
PLR provides referrals to social service agencies and community resources such as free professional eye exams, prescription lenses, family counseling, reduced bus fare, and food banks. Students identified as having learning differences receive free professional screening for scotopic sensitivity and other learning disabilities.
