Blue Ridge Literacy chosen to host Cuban Citizenship class

Blue Ridge Literacy has been chosen as a partner in the PEACE Citizenship program, which is designed to assist Cuban-Americans in their efforts to improve their English skills and to achieve U.S. citizenship.  PEACE operates as a part of the state’s Department of Social Services through the “Welcome Newcomers” program. This program is in its 3rd year of reaching out to Cuban immigrants throughout the Commonwealth.  Currently, we have 30 learners and meet Tuesday and Thursday evenings.

Test your knowledge by taking a practice Citizenship test!  If you would like to help lead a class of immigrants or other international learners, help an adult to learn to read or improve their existing English skills or prepare for the Citizenship test, contact Russ Merrrit at 265-9339.

7th Annual Scrabble Tournament a huge success!

The 7th Annual Scrabble Tournament to benefit Blue Ridge Literacy was a big success, with over $10,000 netted to support our programs and services.  Thanks to our many sponsors, donors, volunteers and players who helped make this event possible.  Area restaurants donated platters of food and our wonderful tutors supplied oodles of home-made goodies. Between the daytime and evening events, we had about 250 folks.  The “Scrabble Rousers” from the Roanoke Scrabble Club placed 1st with 842 points and the “Scrabbleheads” came in 2nd with 681 points. Our youngest player was 9 years old and we attracted players from as far away as Martinsville, Lynchburg, Wytheville and Rocky Mount to name a few.  Best team names included “Real Housewives of Chaparral“, “Spellbound“, “Our Few Tile Endeavor“and the “Dewey Decimators” from the library.

Blue Ridge Literacy Executive Director Russ Merritt with David Baldacci

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Author David Baldacci spoke at the Virginia Literacy conference in February.  Blue Ridge Literacy attended this conference in Richmond and enjoyed Mr. Baldacci’s presentation about his support of literacy efforts.  David supports literacy throughout the United States through his Wish You Well Foundation.  Blue Ridge Literacy receives funds from this foundation for its adult literacy programs.  Hear Baldacci tell anecdotes and speak about his passion for literacy.  Thanks for your support David!