We need more Ruth Colvin's in this world

National Womens Hall of Fame
Ruth Colvin saw a problem - pervasive adult illiteracy - and used formidable organizing skills and tenacity to help solve it through the creation of Literacy Volunteers of America. Colvin learned the scope of illiteracy in l962 when she discovered that thousands in the Finger Lakes county where she lived could not read. Her life was transformed as she undertook the necessary training needed to help correct the situation.

She determined that traditional classroom methods would not work and instead focused on the development of community networks in which a climate was created that empowered adult learners in new ways. The organization developed tutor training programs, special materials, community support components and a model that involves people from all walks of life in a community. Former dropouts become tutors, as do bank presidents, educators and many others. Thus far more than 400,000 have learned to read through the Literacy Volunteers program, in more than 460 locations operating in 40 states. Colvin travels internationally to share her unique program and knowledge - exemplifying the power of one individual to change the world for the better.

Additional Resources:
In the Beginning was the World: teaching reading & writing through the Bible. Syracuse, New York: Literacy Volunteers of America, Inc., 1994.

>Read about Ruth in today's paper. Her quote, "If you stop learning, you might as well die" hit me. She started out with no teaching degree and through research and people, she formed a National Organization. With support from her husband which is a huge boost, she created something so wonderful. Through her teachings, she is able to look outside the box to achieve her goal. Another quote from Ruth to end this blog on: "If you believe in your idea, you go from there." "If you do it with love, it will work out." By the way, Ruth is 90 and still travels internationally to help teach tudors in other countries. This women is someone very special, we need more Ruth's in this world we call home.