Since 1982, Literacy Volunteers of South Sarasota County (LVSSC) has offered literary services to adults who want to improve their functional reading, writing, and English-speaking skills. LVSSC is a member of ProLiteracy, the largest adult literacy organization in the United States, and has been recognized by the IRS as a tax-exempt 501(c)(3) charitable organization.
Our Vision
Every adult in South Sarasota County desiring to improve their English literacy skills will receive appropriate learning opportunities in a timely fashion.
With these improved skills, our students will reach their full potential as members of the workforce, our community and in their personal family life.
Our Mission
It is the mission of LVSSC to provide men and women of our region with the English literacy skills needed to reach their full potential as individuals, parents, workforce participants and as citizens. This is accomplished through a variety of teaching methods including one-on-one tutoring, student chats, classroom group learning and an online learning system.
Karen Bridegam
North Port Literacy Coordinator
Peter Norrman
Venice Literacy Coordinator
Serhii Horevyi
Staff Assistant
Saara Ullery
Executive Director
Our Story
Over our 40-year history we have helped thousands of adults in the Englewood, Nokomis, North Port, and Venice areas improve their English.
Hundreds of our dedicated volunteers have helped teach low-literacy adults, who are motivated by one simple idea. They want to earn a piece of the American Dream for themselves and their families; and realize that to do so they must be able to communicate effectively.
After decades of manageable demand, we have entered a period of unprecedented growth. Over the last three years, the number of students we now serve has tripled to 450 adult learners. Because our volunteer instructor and tutor recruitment has not been able to keep pace, we now have a waiting list of over 200+ applicants; so our total demand is closing in on 700 people interested in our services.
This growth has occurred for two reasons: the invasion of Ukraine by Russia in the Spring of 2022; and the lack of immigration controls at our southern and northern borders. Regardless of why, we need additional volunteers to meet unprecedented demand.
STABILITY
COVID
RAPID GROWTH
Our Board of Directors
Photos courtesy of Rob Christy Photography
Our board of directors, each of whom volunteers their time and expertise, plays a key role in shaping LVSCC's vision and ensuring that our programs are effective and impactful. We are a team of experienced professionals with a shared passion for helping people improve their literacy skills. Together, we are dedicated to creating a safe and supportive learning environment where individuals can achieve their full potential. Our board members come from diverse backgrounds and bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the table. We are committed to working together to make a positive impact in our community.
Dell Rubin-Smithern
President
Mike Farmer
Vice President
Sandy McIntyre
Treasurer/ Newsletter Co-Editor
Rita-Rikka Williams
Secretary/ Newsletter Co-Editor
Dell Rubin-Smithern
President
Mike Farmer
Vice President
Sandy McIntyre
Treasurer/ Newsletter
Rita-Rikka Williams
Secretary/ Newsletter Co-Editor
2024- 2025 Members
Mary Lou Belisle
Deb Metzler
Polly Skinner
