Literacy Volunteers of Greater Sanford, Maine

Did You Know?

We focus on helping each person achieve his or her potential through literacy skills.

We offer tutoring to take the U.S. Citizenship exam. Recently, two of our students passed it and are now citizens!

People who volunteer often become happier and feel more connected to their community. Volunteers know they are making a difference to other people.

When individuals improve their literacy skills, they feel more confident and able to do new things.

For some adults, reading is difficult because they have a learning disability. We help each student to discover their best learning style and build on what they already know.

The most important predictor of children's literacy level is their mother's literacy level. Each time we help a mother improve her skills, it helps her children have a better start in life.

News and Events

LVGS Celebrates 'Outstanding' Work at Annual Dinner

May 24 , 2019 (The York County Coast Star) - SANFORD -- In the eighteenth century, a minister named Griffith Jones started what he called Circulating Schools.

Basically, Jones traveled from one community to another, spending perhaps three months at each one and teaching literacy to groups of anywhere between four and eight people. As part of his efforts to spread his Methodist faith, he used texts from the Bible and from religious tracts in his lessons.

Part of the idea of these Circulating Schools was that his former students would eventually form groups of their own after Jones left their community and use their newfound skills to teach literacy to others.
Jones did this for 22 years, with a benefactress, Bridget Bevan, supporting his efforts and paying for his living expenses. When he died, Bevan assumed responsibility for the project for another 18 years.

In 40 years, 6,300 of these Circulating Schools were formed. As many as 304,000 citizens of Wales became literate as a result. These schools thrived until they were absorbed by the British government in the 1850s and essentially discontinued. Before then, however, Jones's project had transformed education and culture in his country.

David Jagger, who is of Welsh heritage, shared this story with students and tutors and their friends and families during Literacy Volunteers of Greater Sanford's annual dinner at the Sanford Town Club on Thursday, May 16. Jagger, of Jagger Brothers mill on Water Street in Springvale, served as the evening's guest speaker.

It was fitting that Jagger spoke about those Circulating Schools in Wales more than 150 years ago. After all, he too helped spark an initiative that spread literacy in his community. Working with LVGS, Jagger formed the English Language Learning Program at Jagger Brothers, which assisted his employees in gaining command of English as their second language.

In his remarks, Jagger praised the work of LVGS as "outstanding."

"You teach people to read and write, but beyond that, you change them," Jagger said to the organization's tutors and board members and its executive director, Ingrid Baily. "Thank you for all you do for my employees."

After the speech, Geoff Titherington, the president of the LVGS board of directors, announced that this year's Literacy Partner Award went to volunteer Linda Bishop, an employee at Jagger Brothers. Bishop was not able to attend the dinner, due to another volunteering obligation, and Jagger accepted the award on her behalf.

The ceremony - which included a welcome by Titherington, opening remarks from Baily, the election of board officers and members, and dinner and dessert catered by Gina Sawtelle and her staff at Above & Beyond Catering - ended with Baily calling up four tutors who have made a difference in the lives of Jagger Brothers employees as a result of the ESL program. Tutors Gail Burnett, Jody Shellene, Linda Brown, and Tony Squillacioti all joined Baily at the podium and shared some of their experiences as tutors in the program.

Burnett, who teaches at Sanford Community Adult Education, started tutoring at Jagger Brothers last August.

"It was wonderful," Burnett said of the experience.

Burnett taught English to five employees, four of whom are Cambodian. Two of those students, Ratana Bernard and Cesia Olavedez, both of whom have college degrees, earned through studying in their native language, were at the dinner with Burnett. She noted how challenging the English language can be to new learners.

"Once you start pulling it apart, it's not easy," Burnett said.

Burnett praised the efforts and successes of her former students, stating that it was a pleasure to work with them and expressing hopes to tutor in the program again.

Shellene told the audience that he has been teaching literacy to adults since 2004. In 2016, he added, he took a course in Kittery and became certified to teach English as a Second Language.

"I was hooked and became eager to put my newly learned skills to task," Shellene said.

At first, there was not a need for ESL tutors in Sanford. Last June, Shellene finally got his chance and started tutoring three employees in the Jagger Brothers program. He had three Cambodian women as students.
"All three were an absolute delight," he said. "They each sought and held a competitive edge with each other. It was never necessary for me to give them any tough love for them to study more or try harder. They certainly did that and gave their tough love to one another."

Shellene described all three of his students as grateful, gracious, and enthusiastic.

"Their desire to absorb everything I taught them, along with their infectiously appreciative and joyous natures, has made my experience, as their tutor, one I will deeply cherish forever," Shellene said.

Brown told the audience that she taught Cambodian grandparents at Jagger Brothers. She said the grandparents were "determined to learn English to communicate with their grandkids - grandkids absorbing English as a first language."

Of course, since Brown's students were grandparents, they had a certain tool to help them learn English: pictures of their grandchildren.

"Everyone had cell phones and could show pictures of their little ones, which led to more conversations for practice," Brown smiled and said.

Squillacioti has taught literacy in Sanford and in Kittery, where he also teaches citizenship to students. He told the audience that he even once filled in for Shellene's Jagger Brothers class while Shellene was out of state and could not make class with his students. Squillacioti said he appreciated the opportunity to be a part of the ESL program.

"It was just a wonderful thing to see, and I just really appreciate and was honored to be able to participate in that," Squillacioti said.

After the four tutors spoke, Burnett called Bernard and Olavedez to the front of the room, where she presented them both with certificates of achievements. Everyone in the room applauded their accomplishments.

Literacy Volunteers of Greater Sanford has helped adults achieve their literacy goals through tutoring and other programs since 1986. LVGS is located in a suite at The Townhouse at 883 Main St. and can be reached at 324-2486.

Save the Date for Literacy Volunteers of Greater Sanford's
Annual Student Recognition Dinner

March 26, 2019 - Literacy Volunteers of Greater Sanford (LVGS) is pleased to announce that its Twentieth Annual Student Recognition Dinner will be held on Thursday, May 16, 2019 at the Town Club in Sanford, with catering by Above and Beyond. Registration begins at 5:00 p.m. and the program begins at 5:30.

The event includes recognition of students and tutors, a delicious dinner and the chance to be inspired by the achievements of adult literacy students. We are pleased to announce that David Jagger will be our guest speaker.

LVGS supports the literacy needs of adults with free, confidential one-on-one tutoring by trained adult volunteers. Founded in 1986, LVGS helps adults improve their literacy levels and change their lives. We are grateful to have strong community support and to be a United Way of York County partner.

Tickets to the dinner are $15 per person. For reservations, please call the office at 324-2486 by Wednesday, May 8.

Literacy Volunteers of Greater Sanford Receives United Way of York County 2019 Community Investment

February 27, 2019 - Literacy Volunteers of Greater Sanford (LVGS) is pleased to announce that it has been awarded a two-year grant from United Way of York County totaling $16,200. This investment will support programs focused on building adult and family literacy.

The mission of LVGS is supporting the literacy needs of adults with free, confidential one-on-one tutoring by trained adult volunteers. Founded in 1986, LVGS offers opportunities for adult learners to improve their literacy skills and achieve their goals relating to education, career and family.

Through the mobilization of people, resources and expertise, United Way of York County works to improve lives across York County. Thanks to the continued support of dedicated individuals, businesses and organizations across the region, this year the United Way is investing in 58 community programs that serve children, youth, adults, and families.

"Thanks to the generosity of those who support the United Way's work throughout the year, we are able to provide continued and much needed support for essential and direct human services right here in our county," noted United Way of York County President & CEO Barb Wentworth. "These important programs support the best start for our youngest citizens, provide healthy foods for children and seniors, engage youth in meaningful service, and meet basic needs-all critical components of our collective efforts to build an even stronger York County."

Trivia Night Thanks

February 18, 2019 - On behalf of Literacy Volunteers of Greater Sanford, thank you very much to everyone who took part in and supported our Trivia Night at the Town Club event on Friday, January 18! We had a great turnout of 120 people playing on sixteen teams. Special thanks to Shawn Sullivan for being our terrific new emcee, Gina and her team at Above and Beyond Catering for superb food and hospitality, all the donors to the raffle and live auction, and everyone who played the trivia game with great spirit, bought raffle tickets and bid on auction items! Our sponsors were: Kennebunk Savings Bank, Moody's Collision Centers, Sanford-Springvale Altrusa, Sanford Lions, SIS Bank, York County Federal Credit Union and YRL Group. This was our tenth annual Trivia Night and produced a net of $5,200 for our programs offering free, one-on-one tutoring to adults.

With strong community support, we've raised over $38,000 with this event over the years. Thank you, one and all, for making this possible!

Please mark your calendars and join us for next year's Trivia Night on Friday, January 17, 2020!

Ingrid Baily, Executive Director

What is a cruciverbalist?

January 24, 2019 - Who was first offered the role of John McClane in the movie “Die Hard” before it ultimately went to Bruce Willis?

What is a cruciverbalist?

On what day exactly, more than 250 years ago now, did Sanford officially become incorporated as a city?

These are just three of the more than 30 questions teams were asked when Literacy Volunteers of Greater Sanford held its annual Trivia Night at the Sanford Town Club on Friday, Jan. 18. The event is a fundraiser for LVGS, which meets the literacy needs of adults in the Greater Sanford Area through assorted programs and tutoring sessions.

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Christmas Angels: Love of literacy, learning drive Baily’s work with LVGS

December 20, 2018 - The two students arrive at Literacy Volunteers of Greater Sanford (LVGS) with boxes of books in their car.

Their names are Kaelli Gehrung and Carly Donald, and they hail from Plymouth State College in New Hampshire. They’re both enrolled in a seminar on literacy and are pursuing projects to foster literacy. One such project involved gathering these books - there are scores of them in several boxes - and making the long trek from Plymouth to Sanford to put them in the hands of Ingrid Baily, the executive director of Literacy Volunteers of Greater Sanford.

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A Meeting of the Minds: SIS Bank to Sponsor Literacy Volunteers Trivia Night

December 18, 2018 - We learn so much over the course of our lifetime, but how well do we really fare when it’s time to put that knowledge to the test? For the 10th straight year, Literacy Volunteers of Greater Sanford will be hosting Trivia Night, and we are pleased to announce our sponsorship of $500 to the event, as well as a donation of a gallon of maple syrup from the locally renowned Hilltop Boilers.

Trivia Night will take place at The Town Club at 4 Washington Street in Sanford on Friday, January 18th from 7-9 p.m. Doors will open at 6 p.m. Shawn Sullivan of the former Sanford News will be the emcee for the night, testing teams on their knowledge of categories such as science, music, current events, food, and more!

SIS will also be entering a team, so do you have what it takes to outsmart the friendly faces of your neighborhood bank? Teams consist of four to eight participants at the cost of $20 per person. Appetizers and other refreshments will be served.

Literacy Volunteers supports the needs of adults, especially those reading below the ninth-grade level, with free, confidential one-on-one tutoring by trained adult volunteers. Their approach is student-centered so that literacy goals match life goals related to the family, employment and citizenship.

Springvale Company Provides Employees Time, Space for English Tutoring

December 5, 2018 - Every Thursday afternoon, nine employees of Jagger Brothers get together
with their volunteer tutors, and work on their English language skills.

The one-hour lessons take place at the workplace, making it convenient for employees who like many, have commitments that make it difficult to attend a night class elsewhere.

David Jagger, the owner of Jagger Brothers, a company that began manufacturing worsted yarns back in 1898, said offering the classes is an investment in the employees — and in the company as well.

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Join us for Trivia Night at the Town Club after the Holidays!

Literacy Volunteers of Greater Sanford (LVGS) is pleased to announce their Tenth Annual Trivia Night event on Friday, January 18, 2019.

Trivia Night at the Town Club, a fundraiser for LVGS programs, includes team competition on trivia questions. Please join us for a fun evening of competition hosted by our new emcee, Shawn Sullivan!

Trivia categories include sports, science, current events, pop culture, literature, food, and music. A raffle and a live auction will also be held. We are seeking sponsors as well as donated items for the raffle and auction.

Tickets are $20 per person including appetizers. Teams need 4 to 8 people. If you don't have 4 people, please give us a call and we'll match you with others for a team.

The doors open at 6:00 p.m. and the Trivia Game takes place from 7:00 - 9:00 p.m.

FMI, please call the Literacy Volunteers office at 324-2486. Please sign up early as space is limited!

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‘Changing Lives’ at Literacy Volunteers of Greater Sanford
May 25, 2018

Journal Tribune
By TAMMY WELLS
Senior Staff Writer

SANFORD — Nelson Thompson is enjoying reading a variety of subjects these days. He’s been reading about the Wright brothers, of aircraft fame, as well as perusing newspapers and books.

Three years ago, reading wasn’t part of his daily life. That changed when he got in touch with Literacy Volunteers of Greater Sanford and began working with a tutor.

Thompson, 47, was born in Sanford. The family lived in Wells for a time and then in Concord, New Hampshire, where he attended high school. A childhood accident meant many hospitalizations though, and his school work suffered.

“I knew I needed to learn to read a long time ago,” said Thompson on Wednesday at the LVGS annual student recognition dinner. Someone pointed him in the right direction — and his reading skills have improved as a result.

Thompson has been been working with his volunteer tutor, Helen Bower, for almost three years at the LVGS office on Main Street.

“I show up early and read before Helen arrives,” said Thompson.

“Nelson’s my star,” said Bower. “I like to work with someone dedicated to learning.”

Bower, who works at Waban, said she read a news item about tutor training and her work supervisor suggested she might enjoy it. Her volunteer gig with LVGS began in 2005.

Thompson and Bower were named Student and Tutor of the Year at the recognition event.

LVGS Executive Director Ingrid Baily said students gain confidence when they work diligently. She said Thompson told her “I’m reading things I never thought about before.”

LVGS is an outgrowth of a program begun at Louis B. Goodall Memorial Library in 1986, when Ken Scott, library director at the time, secured a grant to offer literacy services. As time passed, the program blossomed and became its own entity.

Louis B. Goodall Memorial Library was recognized as a literacy partner on Wednesday.

“The library and literacy have always gone hand in hand,” library’s Director Jackie McDougal said.

In addition to reading, and math instruction, a new initiative instituted by LVGS in March brings computer literacy skills directly to consumers looking for work at the Maine CareerCenter in Springvale. Volunteer Susan Stebbins spends four hours a week at the center, tutoring up to four students, individually, on how to navigate the software programs used in job searches and reporting for unemployment benefits. Stebbins said the classes have proved popular — using a computer can be daunting for someone with little exposure to them and no access at home.

Board member and the evening’s speaker, Shawn Sullivan, summed up LVGS’s role:

“Literacy, as we know, provides opportunity,” said Sullivan. “LVGS however, changes lives.”

Thompson agrees.

“It is still a bit of a struggle,” said Thompson of his reading. “But I am getting better at it.”

19th Annual Student Recognition Dinner
Literacy Volunteers of Greater Sanford (LVGS) is pleased to announce that its Nineteenth Annual Student Recognition Dinner will be held on Wednesday, May 23, 2018 at the Town Club in Sanford, with catering by Above and Beyond. Registration begins at 5:00 p.m. and the program begins at 5:30.

The event includes recognition of students and tutors, a delicious dinner and the chance to be inspired by the achievements of adult literacy students.

Tickets to the dinner are $15 per person. For reservations, please call the office at 324-2486 by Wednesday, May 16.

Trivia Night Thanks
January 31, 2018 - On behalf of Literacy Volunteers of Greater Sanford, thank you very much to everyone who took part in and supported our Trivia Night at the Town Club event on Friday, January 12! We had a great turnout of 125 people playing on seventeen teams. Special thanks to Marcel Blouin for being our emcee, Gina and her team at Above and Beyond Catering for terrific food and hospitality, all the donors to the raffle and live auction, and everyone who played the trivia game with great spirit, bought raffle tickets and bid on auction items. Our sponsors were: Altrusa Club of Sanford-Springvale, Kennebunk Savings, Moody's Collision Centers, Rotary Club of Sanford-Springvale, Sanford Lions Club, SIS Bank, York County Federal Credit Union and YRL Group. This was our ninth annual Trivia Night and produced a net of $5,200 for our programs offering free, individualized tutoring to adults. Thank you, one and all, for making this possible!

In nine years, we've raised over $31,000 with this event. We're tremendously grateful for such strong community support of our mission!

Please mark your calendars and join us for next year's Trivia Night on Friday, January 18, 2019!

LVGS Receives Donation from the Fabulous Find in Kittery
January 16, 2018 - Literacy Volunteers of Greater Sanford (LVGS) is delighted to announce that it has received a very generous donation from The Fabulous Find Resale Boutique in Kittery in the amount of $7,678. The funds will be used to support our programs for adult learners.

The Fabulous Find, a 501c3 non-profit organization, is a boutique-style resale shop that partners with different worthy, local non-profit organizations each month. All profits are donated to the organizations selected by their board of directors for that month. Their overhead is low, and the more sales they do, the bigger the check awarded will be at the end of the month. In order to make this community giving effort possible, volunteers log hundreds of hours each year. Since opening in July 2010, The Fabulous Find has given out over $1.1 million in donations to more than 40 non-profit organizations in York County and the Seacoast area.

To learn more about The Fabulous Find, see their website at www.thefabulousfind.org or call 439-8669. Please “like” them on Facebook. The shop is located at 139 State Road in Kittery and is open Monday-Saturday 9:30 am-5:30 pm and Sunday 11 am-4 pm. They carry gently used clothing, jewelry and home accessories.

Join us for Trivia Night at the Town Club after the Holidays!

January 12, 2018 - Literacy Volunteers of Greater Sanford (LVGS) is pleased to announce their Ninth Annual Trivia Night event on Friday, January 12, 2018.

Trivia Night at the Town Club, a fundraiser for LVGS programs, includes team competition on trivia questions.

Trivia categories include geography, science, current events, pop culture, literature, food, and music. A raffle and a live auction will also be held. We are seeking sponsors as well as donated items for the raffle and auction.

Tickets are $20 per person including appetizers. Teams need 4 to 8 people. If you don't have 4 people, please give us a call and we'll match you with others for a team.

The doors open at 6 p.m. and the Trivia Game takes place from 7 - 9 p.m.

Please join us for a fun evening of competition hosted by emcee Marcel Blouin!

FMI, please call the Literacy Volunteers office at 324-2486.

LVGS Recipient of The Fabulous Find Donation

October 18, 2017 -Literacy Volunteers of Greater Sanford (LVGS) is delighted to announce that it has been selected as a recipient of a donation from The Fabulous Find Resale Boutique in Kittery for the month of November.

The Fabulous Find, a 501c3 non-profit organization, is a boutique-style resale shop that partners with different worthy, local non-profit organizations each month. All profits are donated to the organizations selected by their board of directors for that particular month. Their overhead is low, and the more sales they do, the bigger the check awarded will be at the end of the month. In order to make this community giving effort possible, volunteers log hundreds of hours each year. Since opening in July 2010, The Fabulous Find has given out over $1.1 million in donations to more than 40 non-profit organizations in York County and the Seacoast area.

Please join us for a reception at The Fabulous Find on Saturday, November 4 at 8:30 am, and donate items and shop during the month of November!

The mission of LVGS is supporting the literacy needs of adults with free, confidential one-on-one tutoring by trained adult volunteers. Whether the goal is to prepare for the high school equivalency exam, understand a label on a prescription bottle, or read a bedtime story to a child, LVGS offers opportunities for adult learners to improve their literacy skills and achieve their personal and career goals. LVGS is grateful to have strong community support including from the United Way of York County.

LVGS Announces Annual Student Recognition Dinner
April 11, 2017 - Literacy Volunteers of Greater Sanford (LVGS) is pleased to announce that its Eighteenth Annual Student Recognition Dinner will be held on Wednesday, May 24, 2017 at the Town Club in Sanford, with catering by Above and Beyond. Registration begins at 5 p.m. and the program begins at 5:30.

The event includes recognition of students and tutors, a delicious dinner and the chance to be inspired by the achievements of adult literacy students. We also will recognize the Parks and Recreation Department of the City of Sanford for its longtime service. Staff from the department will discuss their activities in maintaining and enhancing the community's many parks, including Goodall Park, where the Mainers play.

Tickets to the dinner are $15 per person. For reservations, please call the office at 324-2486 by Wednesday, May 17.

LVGS Receives United Way of York County 2017 Community Investment

February 24, 2017 - Literacy Volunteers of Greater Sanford (LVGS) today announced that it has been awarded a one-year grant from United Way of York County for $15,500. This investment will support building adult literacy in the community.

Through the mobilization of resources, expertise, and funds that support programs focused on the essentials of education, financial stability, and health, United Way of York County advances the common good and strengthens the whole community. Thanks to the continued support of many dedicated individuals, businesses, and organizations throughout York County, this year the United Way is investing in 56 community programs that serve children, youth, adults, and families.

"Thanks to the generosity of many who support United Way's work throughout the year, we are able to provide continued and much needed support for essential human services across the region," noted United Way of York County President & CEO Barb Wentworth. "These important programs support the best start for our youngest citizens, provide healthy foods for children and seniors, engage youth in meaningful service, and meet basic needs, all critical components of our collective efforts to build an even stronger York County."

About United Way of York County
United Way of York County strengthens community conditions by bringing people and resources together to effect long-lasting changes that improve lives. Together we focus on important issues that impact Education, Income, and Health, the building blocks of a good quality life.

To learn more about United Way of York County and be a part of the change you want to see in the world, visit www.buildcommunity.org or call 207-985-3359 to learn how you can Give, Advocate, or Volunteer.

LVGS Announces Tutor Training
January 31, 2017 - Literacy Volunteers of Greater Sanford (LVGS) is pleased to announce a tutor training for new volunteer tutors. Training sessions are free of charge.

The training prepares volunteers who want to tutor adults in reading, writing, math or computing. It includes an online segment to be completed independently and a required group session. The group session will be held on Friday, March 3, 10:00 am to 2:00 pm at the Literacy Volunteers office instead of Friday, February 10. Pre-registration is required. For more information or to register, please call the Literacy Volunteers office at 324-2486.

Trivia Night Thanks
January 17, 2017 - On behalf of Literacy Volunteers of Greater Sanford, thank you very much to everyone who took part in and supported our Eighth Annual Trivia Night at the Town Club event on Friday, January 13! We had a great turnout of 110 people playing on fifteen teams. Special thanks to Marcel Blouin for being our emcee, Gina and her team at Above and Beyond Catering for great food and hospitality, all the donors to the raffle and live auction, and everyone who played the trivia game with great spirit and bought raffle tickets and bid on auction items. The event was generously sponsored by the Altrusa Club of Sanford-Springvale, the Sanford Lions Club, Creteau's Studio, Kennebunk Savings, Moody's Collision Centers, Rotary Club of Sanford-Springvale, and SIS Bank. Thank you one and all for helping us raise funds for our programs!

Congratulations to the winning team, "The Numbskulls": Tracy Goodwin, Melanie Taylor, Beth Robie, Glenn Robie, Andrew Phillips and Jen Phillips.

We are extremely grateful for strong community support. Please mark your calendars and join us for next year's Trivia Night on Friday, January 12, 2018.

LVGS Announces Fall Tutor Training
November 1 , 2016 - Literacy Volunteers of Greater Sanford (LVGS) is pleased to announce a tutor training for new volunteer tutors. Training sessions are free of charge.

The training prepares volunteers who want to tutor adults in reading, writing, math or computing. It includes an online segment to be completed independently and a required group session. The group session will be held on Saturday, November 19, 10:00 am to 2:00 pm at the Literacy Volunteers office. Pre-registration is required. For more information or to register, please call the Literacy Volunteers office at 324-2486.

LVGS Honors Students, Tutors and Volunteers
June 21, 2016 (article from Fosters.com) - Nancy Drew has a new fan.

Nicole Milo is now reading at a sixth-grade level, thanks to her own hard work and determination and to the services provided by Literacy Volunteers of Greater Sanford. LVGS honored Milo with its Student Achievement Award during the organization's annual dinner at the Sanford Town Club on June 2, and that's when Milo revealed to everyone that Drew, the famous young detective with generations of avid followers, is her favorite book character.

At the dinner, LVGS also honored Sean Hill and Donna Benson as the Student-Tutor Pair of the Year. Benson began tutoring Hill in February of 2015 when he began a new career and wanted to be able to read to his children and help them with their school work. Hill, a welder, has been persistent in his journey toward literacy and is enjoying such books as Louis Sachar's "Holes." He stays sharp by reading for 10 to 15 minutes before work every morning.

LVGS also honored Alicia Shorthill, the recipient of last year's Denis Forest Tutor Award. Shorthill could not attend last year's dinner and so spoke at the one earlier this month, telling those gathered that she was "humbled and deeply touched" to receive an award named after a tutor who in his lifetime gave so much to the local cause of literacy.

Sanford Parks and Recreation Director Marcel Blouin received the organization's Literacy Partner Award. Blouin, a local Kiwanian, has emceed the organization's annual Trivia Night at the Town Club for the past several years.

"It really has been a treat to do that," Blouin told everyone at the dinner. "It's a pleasure working with the literacy program, and I welcome more opportunities to do that."

Mayor Tom Cote served as the evening's guest speaker. Cote compared the LVGS students' progress and achievements with the recent strides made in the City of Sanford. He mentioned the groundbreaking of the new high school in South Sanford and efforts to build a Broadband network and a major solar array in the community as examples.

"Often, just taking that first step on a long road is half the battle," he told the students in the audience. Cote also encouraged the LVGS students to act with urgency, to be courageous and willing to take risks, to seek the help of others, to stay positive and to celebrate their successes.

"Believe in yourself and in your mission and everything else will sort itself out over time," he said. Also at the dinner, LVGS Executive Director Ingrid Baily thanked everyone for their support.

At LVGS President Geoff Titherington's invitation, guest John Tanguay led the nomination process for the organization's board of directors for the coming year. All nominees were approved. The board for the coming year will include Titherington as president; John Rivard as vice president; Ellen Pouravelis as treasurer; Jeanne Mahoney as secretary; and Jean Brennan, Claire Creteau, Arthur Dumas, Deborah Godin and Shawn Sullivan as members.

Sanford Mayor Tom Cote to be Guest Speaker at LVGS Annual Student Recognition Dinner
May 5, 2016 - Literacy Volunteers of Greater Sanford (LVGS) is pleased to announce that Tom Cote, Mayor of the City of Sanford, will be the guest speaker at their Annual Student Recognition Dinner on Thursday, June 2, 2016 at 5:00 pm at the Town Club in Sanford. The event is open to the public and we welcome newcomers.

The event includes recognition of students and tutors including several awards, a delicious dinner and the chance to be inspired by the courage and achievements of adult literacy students. Tickets to the dinner are $15 per person. For reservations, please call the office at 324-2486 by Tuesday, May 24.

LVGS Announces Annual Student Recognition Dinner
Literacy Volunteers of Greater Sanford (LVGS) is pleased to announce that its Annual Student Recognition Dinner will be held on Thursday, June 2, 2016 at 5:00 pm at the Town Club in Sanford, with catering by Above and Beyond. The event is open to the public and we welcome newcomers.

The event includes recognition of students and tutors including several awards, a delicious dinner and the chance to be inspired by the courage and achievements of adult literacy students. Tickets to the dinner are $15 per person. For reservations, please call the office at 324-2486 by Tuesday, May 24. Learn More

LVGS Announces Spring Tutor Training
March 29, 2016 - Literacy Volunteers of Greater Sanford (LVGS) is pleased to announce a tutor training for new volunteer tutors. Training sessions are free of charge. The training prepares volunteers who want to tutor adults in reading, writing, math or computing. It includes an online segment to be completed independently and a required group session. The group session will be held on Friday, April 22, 10:00 am to 2:00 pm at the Literacy Volunteers office. Pre-registration is required. For more information or to register, please call the Literacy Volunteers office at 324-2486.

Community Supper at Robert's Maine Grill

February 20, 2016 -Literacy Volunteers of Greater Sanford (LVGS) is delighted to announce that it has received a donation of $515 from the Law Offices of Joe Bornstein. This generous contribution is given by the employees in honor of founder Joe Bornstein, who has a particular interest in supporting literacy. "My wife and I were very touched when our staff made a donation on our behalf." said Attorney Bornstein. "We see firsthand the difficulties Mainers have. My wife and I strive to give back to the communities throughout Maine in which our employees live and work by supporting literacy and disability rights organizations. We thank the Literacy Volunteers for their wonderful efforts on behalf of Mainers in the Sanford area. Our law firm has been honored to represent hundreds of clients at our office on Main Street in downtown Sanford."

The law firm has a statewide practice with sixty-five legal professionals and six offices, including Sanford, and has proudly represented over 23,000 Mainers in their personal injury and disability claims since 1974.

LVGS is very grateful for this donation to its annual appeal, which will go toward its mission of supporting adults' learning needs with free, one-on-one tutoring by trained adult volunteers.

LVGS Receives United Way of York County 2016 Community Investment
January 28, 2016 -Literacy Volunteers of Greater Sanford (LVGS) today announced that it has been awarded a one-year grant from United Way of York County totaling $15,500. This investment will support building adult literacy in the community.

The mission of LVGS is supporting the literacy needs of adults with free, confidential one-on-one tutoring by trained adult volunteers. LVGS helps adults improve their literacy levels and change their lives. Whether the goal is to fill out a job application, learn to use a computer, read a label on a prescription bottle or study for a high school equivalency test, LVGS offers opportunities for adult learners to improve their literacy skills and achieve their goals relating to family, career, and participation in civic affairs.

Through the mobilization of resources, expertise, and funds that support programs focused on the essentials of education, financial stability, and health, United Way of York County advances the common good and strengthens the whole community. Thanks to the continued support of many dedicated individuals, businesses, and organizations throughout York County, this year the United Way is investing in 63 community programs that serve children, youth, adults, and families.

Community Supper at Robert's Maine Grill

January 28, 2016 -Robert's Maine Grill will host a "Community Supper" on Tuesday, February 16th & February 23rd to help support Literacy Volunteers of Greater Sanford.

The mission of Literacy Volunteers of Greater Sanford is to support the literacy needs of adults with free one-on-one tutoring by trained adult volunteers in reading, writing, math, computing and English language learning. We serve greater Sanford as well as Kittery, Eliot and South Berwick by partnering with adult education programs there.

View Flyer

On Tuesday and Wednesday night from September to June Robert's Maine Grill, located on 326 Route 1, Kittery Maine offers a "Community Supper" starting at 4PM. The Community Supper is a $14 - 3 course menu in the spirit of Robert's style: Maine Comfort Food with an updated twist. Robert's regular dinner menu is also available. Robert's donates a portion of the evening's proceeds to a designated local non-profit, which will be Literacy Volunteers of Greater Sanford on Tuesday, February 16th & February 23rd.

Upcoming Community Supper menus are posted at www.robertsmainegrill.com. Reservations are recommended and can be made by calling 207-439-0300.

Trivia Night Thanks
January 21, 2016 - On behalf of Literacy Volunteers of Greater Sanford, thank you very much to everyone who took part in and supported our Seventh Annual Trivia Night at the Town Club event on Friday, January 15! We had a great turnout of 120 people playing on sixteen teams.

Special thanks to Marcel Blouin for being our emcee, Gina and her team at Above and Beyond Catering for great food and hospitality, all of the donors to the raffle and live auction, and everyone who played the trivia game with great spirit and bought raffle tickets and bid on auction items. The event was generously sponsored by the Altrusa Club of Sanford-Springvale, Creteau's Studio, Kennebunk Savings, Moody's Collision Centers, Rotary Club of Sanford-Springvale, SIS Bank, and YRL Group. Thank you one and all for helping us raise funds for our programs!

Congratulations to the winning team from Kennebunk Savings: Adam Mumm, Jodi Browning, Mike Moloney, John DeRosie, Lynette Tozier, Amy Esonis, Colleen Feeney, and Deborah Godin. They got to wear the Viking hat!

Literacy Volunteers offers free, confidential tutoring to adults so they can improve their literacy skills and change their lives. We are extremely grateful for strong community support of our mission. Please mark your calendars and join us for next year's Trivia Night on Friday, January 13, 2017.

Join Us for Trivia Night at the Town Club!
November 3, 2015 - Literacy Volunteers of Greater Sanford (LVGS) is pleased to announce their Seventh Annual Trivia Night event on Friday, January 15, 2016.

Trivia Night at the Town Club, a fundraiser for LVGS programs, includes team competition on trivia questions and delicious appetizers.

Trivia categories include geography, science, current events, literature, food, and television. A raffle and a live auction will also be held. We are seeking sponsors as well as donated items for the raffle and auction.

Tickets are $20 per person including appetizers. Teams need 4 to 8 people. If you don't have 4 people, please call us and we will match you with others for a team.

The doors open at 6 p.m. and the Trivia Game is 7 - 9 p.m.

Please join us for a fun evening of competition and entertainment hosted by emcee Marcel Blouin!

FMI, please call the Literacy Volunteers office at 324-2486. The deadline is December 7, but please sign up early as space is limited! Download Flyer

LVGS Receives Donation from The Fabulous Find Resale Boutique
October 29, 2015 - Literacy Volunteers of Greater Sanford (LVGS) is delighted to announce that it has received a generous donation for its programs from The Fabulous Find Resale Boutique in Kittery.

The Fabulous Find, a 501c3 non-profit organization, is a resale boutique that partners with different worthy, local non-profit organizations each month. All profits are donated to the organizations selected by their board for that particular month.

Their overhead is low, and the more sales they do, the bigger the check awarded at the end of the month. In order to operate the shop and make this community giving effort possible, volunteers log hundreds of hours each year. Since opening in mid-July of 2010, The Fabulous Find has given out over $500,000 in donations to more than 40 non-profit organizations in York County and the Seacoast area.

To learn more about The Fabulous Find, see their website at www.fabulousfind.org or call them at 439-8669. Please "like" them on facebook. They are located at 139 State Road in Kittery (Route One).

SIS Bank Donates to LVGS through "Touchdowns for Good"
September 21, 2015 - Literacy Volunteers of Greater Sanford (LVGS) is happy to announce that SIS Bank has selected our program as the recipient of the "Touchdowns for Good" program in October. During the month of October, every time Tom Brady (or any other Patriots Quarterback) makes a pass that becomes a touchdown, SIS will donate $50 to LVGS. SIS is partnering with WBLM-FM on this program. Go Pats!

LVGS Receives Donation from Kennebunk Savings
August 25, 2015 - Literacy Volunteers of Greater Sanford (LVGS) is happy to announce receiving a donation of $335 from the Kennebunk Savings Community Promise Customer Ballot program.

Photo: (L to R) Shawn Sullivan, LVGS Board member, Ingrid Baily, LVGS Executive Director, and Sherry Simonds, Vice President, Kennebunk Savings.

Donate and shop at The Fabulous Find in September to benefit Literacy Volunteers of Greater Sanford!
August 20, 2015 - Literacy Volunteers of Greater Sanford (LVGS) is delighted to announce that it has been selected as a recipient of a donation from The Fabulous Find Resale Boutique in Kittery for the month of September.

The Fabulous Find, a 501c3 non-profit organization, is a boutique-style resale shop that partners with different worthy, local non-profit organizations each month. All profits are donated to the organizations selected by their board of directors for that particular month. Their overhead is low, and the more sales they do, the bigger the check awarded will be at the end of the month. In order to make this community giving effort possible, volunteers log hundreds of hours each year. Since opening in July 2010, The Fabulous Find has given out over $600,000 in donations to more than 40 non-profit organizations in York County and the Seacoast area.

To learn more about The Fabulous Find, see their website at www.thefabulousfind.org or call 439-8669. Please “like” them on Facebook. The shop is located at 139 State Road in Kittery and is open Monday-Saturday 9:30-5:30 and Sunday 11-4. They carry gently worn clothing, jewelry and home accessories.

Please join us for a reception at The Fabulous Find on Thursday, September 10th, 5:30-7:30 pm, and donate items and shop during the month of September.

View the Fabulous Find Flyer Here | View the Reception Invitation Flyer Here

Taste of Summer Success!
July 8, 2015 -On behalf of the Y Trafton Center and Literacy Volunteers of Greater Sanford, THANK YOU to everyone who took part in the "Taste of Summer" event on July 1! What a great event, with over 100 people attending to enjoy a huge selection of delicious food. With your support, we raised about $2,400 for our programs. We want to thank the following generous restaurants, farms and businesses: Above & Beyond Catering, Atria Senior Living, Back Street Grill, Bear'z Gourmet, Bite Me Hot Dog Eatery/Lick Me Ice Cream, Dirty Dozen, Fi Wood Restaurant, Heidi's Heavenly Pot Pies, Keepin' It Local Country Store, McDougal Orchards, Mill 67 Restaurant, Nature's Acres Farm, Papa's Place, Round Abouts Grill, Smokin' Smoothie, Take 2 Dough Productions/Panebelle GF Organic Dough, and Third Alarm Diner. Special thanks to Matthew Boulerice at Windsor Construction for allowing us to hold the event at the Goodall Mansion. The weather didn't cooperate for that, but we'll plan another Taste of Summer event to kick off the Fourth of July again next year--and we'll set a rain date, so we can be sure to be on the grounds of Goodall Mansion, in the heart of Sanford. We appreciate what a big heart Sanford has, and we thank everyone again for taking part in the event, switching to the Trafton Center when it rained too much, and helping us raise much-needed funds for our programs. Bravo.

A Taste of Summer
July 1, 2015 -A Taste of Summer is coming on Wednesday, July 1! Enjoy a variety of food from area restaurants while being on the grounds of the historic Goodall Mansion in Sanford! Tickets on sale now, $20 pp. Please click here for more information and join us on July 1, 5:00-7:00 pm! Proceeds benefit the Y Trafton Senior Center and Literacy Volunteers of Greater Sanford.

Video Profile on LVGS Student
May 20, 2015 -LVGS is happy to announce that one of our students, Bruce Couture, is profiled in a video created by Daniel Rosinsky-Larsson, who did a project on adult literacy students as part of his studies at the Salt Institute in Portland in spring 2015. The video on Bruce can be found here:

https://vimeo.com/saltinstitute/review/127431721/a4f38f068e

LVGS is very grateful to Bruce for sharing his story, and we hope that his courage may encourage other people to come forward and improve their literacy skills.

Literacy Volunteers Announces Annual Student Recognition Dinner
March 26, 2015 -Literacy Volunteers of Greater Sanford (LVGS) is pleased to announce that its Sixteenth Annual Student Recognition Dinner will be held on Wednesday, May 13, 2015 at 5 pm at the Town Club in Sanford, with catering by Above and Beyond. The event is open to the public and we welcome newcomers.

The event includes recognition of students and tutors including several awards and speeches, a delicious dinner and the chance to be inspired by the courage and achievements of adult literacy students. Our guest speaker will be Rebecca Dyer, Vice President of Programs at the Barbara Bush Foundation for Family Literacy. Tickets to the dinner are $15 per person. For reservations, please call the office at 324-2486 by Monday, May 4. Download Flyer Here for More Information

Literacy Volunteers Announces Tutor Training
March 25, 2015 -Literacy Volunteers of Greater Sanford (LVGS) is pleased to announce a tutor training for new volunteer tutors. Training sessions are free of charge.

The training prepares volunteers who want to tutor adults in reading, writing, math or computing. It includes an online segment to be completed independently and a required group session. The group session will be held on Friday, May 1, 10 am to 2 pm at the Literacy Volunteers office at 883 Main Street, Suite 4 in Sanford. Pre-registration is required. For more information or to register, please call the office at 324-2486.

Literacy Volunteers Receives Donation from Marc Motors
March 11, 2015 - Literacy Volunteers of Greater Sanford (LVGS) is delighted to announce that it has received a donation of $800 from Marc Motors' Community Spotlight Program. Every month, Marc Motors donates $5 from every oil change to a community nonprofit. Since 2010, they have donated more than $20,000 to area nonprofit programs. LVGS is very grateful for this donation, which will go toward its mission of supporting adults' learning needs with free, one-on-one tutoring by trained adult volunteers.

Ryan Park, Marc Motors; Ingrid Baily, Literacy Volunteers; Phil Royer, Service Manager, Marc Motors; Russ Nadeau, Marc Motors; Geoff Titherington, Literacy Volunteers.

Thank You to our Trivia Night Sponsors and Donors
February 13, 2015 - Many thanks to our sponsors for Trivia Night 2015 as well as our raffle and auction donors. Read Thank You Notice

Literacy Volunteers Receives United Way Investment
February 13, 2015 - Literacy Volunteers of Greater Sanford (LVGS) today announced that it has been awarded two one-year grants from United Way of York County totaling $15,668. This investment will support programs focusing on health and workplace literacy and training volunteer tutors. Through the mobilization of resources, expertise and funds that support programs focused on the essentials of education, financial stability and health, United Way of York County advances the common good and strengthens the whole community.

The mission of LVGS is supporting the literacy needs of adults with free, confidential one-on-one tutoring by trained adult volunteers. Founded in 1986, LVGS helps adults improve their literacy levels and change their lives. Whether the goal is to fill out a job application, learn to use a computer, read a label on a prescription bottle or study for a high school equivalency test, LVGS offers opportunities for adult learners to improve their literacy skills and achieve their goals relating to family, career, and participation in civic affairs.

Thanks to the continued support of many dedicated individuals, businesses and organizations throughout York County, this year, the United Way is investing in 66 community programs serving children, youth, adults and families.

"We applaud the generosity of so many who support United Way's work throughout the year," noted United Way of York County President & CEO Barb Wentworth. "As a result, in 2015 we are able to provide continued and much needed support for essential human services across the region. These important services are a critical component of our collective efforts to build an even stronger York County."

About United Way of York County
United Way of York County strengthens community by bringing people and resources together to effect long lasting changes in community conditions that improve lives. Together we focus on important issues that impact Education, Income and Health, the building blocks of a good quality life.

To learn more about United Way of York County and be a part of the change you want to see in the world, visit www.buildcommunity.org or call 207.985.3359 to learn how you can Give, Advocate or Volunteer.

Trivia Night Thanks
January 26, 2015 - On behalf of Literacy Volunteers of Greater Sanford, thank you very much to everyone who took part in and supported our Sixth Annual Trivia Night at the Town Club event on Friday, January 16! What a terrific evening! Special thanks to Marcel Blouin for being our emcee, Gina and her team at Above and Beyond Catering for great food and hospitality, all of the sponsors and donors to the raffle and live auction, and everyone who played trivia with great spirit and helped us raise funds for our programs. Bravo!

Congratulations to the winning team from Evonik Cyro: Mike Mesick, Lisa and Paul Bourret, Shawn and Kelly Marsh, and Kate Nicholson.

SIS Bank		Kennebunk Savings
(L to R) Linda Nadeau, Executive Administrative Assistant at SIS Bank; Ingrid Baily, Executive Director of LVGS; Jeanne Mahoney, Secretary of the Board of LVGS.		(L to R) Deborah Godin, LVGS Board of Directors member and Wells Assistant Branch Manager; Ingrid Bailey, LVGS Executive Director; Geoff Titherington, LVGS President and Kennebunk Savings Trustee; Sherry Simonds, Sanford/Springvale Market Manager.

Join us for Trivia Night at the Town Club!
Literacy Volunteers of Greater Sanford (LVGS) is pleased to announce their Sixth Annual Trivia Night event on Friday, January 16, 2015. We are very grateful to Sanford-Springvale Rotary Club and SIS Bank for sponsoring the event again this year. We seeking more sponsors as well as donated items for the raffle and auction.

Trivia Night at the Town Club, a fundraiser for LVGS programs, includes team competition on trivia questions and delicious appetizers. Trivia categories include geography, science, current events, literature, food, and television. A raffle and a live auction will also be held.

Tickets are $20 per person including appetizers. Teams need 4 to 8 people. If you don't have 4 people, please call us and we will match you with others for a team.

The doors open at 6 p.m. and the Trivia Game is 7 - 9 p.m.

Please join us for a fun evening of competition and entertainment hosted by emcee Marcel Blouin!

FMI, please call the Literacy Volunteers office at 324-2486. The deadline is December 8, but please sign up early as space is limited! Download/Print Brochure

LVGS Receives Donation from Kennebunk Savings
October 21 , 2014 - Literacy Volunteers of Greater Sanford (LVGS) is happy to announce that we are a top vote-getting nonprofit organization in the Kennebunk Savings Customer Ballot program. We are delighted to be selected as a deserving organization by Kennebunk Savings customers, and are grateful to have received a donation of $240.

LVGS Announces Tutor Trainings
August 28, 2014 - Literacy Volunteers of Greater Sanford (LVGS) is pleased to announce two tutor trainings for new volunteer tutors in English for Speakers of Other Languages and Adult Basic Education. Training sessions are free of charge and are being offered at two partner locations in southern York County.

The training in English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) is for those who want to tutor adults who are learning English. It includes two required group meetings, on Monday, September 22 and Monday, September 29, 9 am to 3 pm both days, at Kittery Adult Education in Kittery. Registration is required. For more information or to sign up for this training, please call the Kittery Adult Education office at 439-5896.

The training in Adult Basic Education (ABE) is for those who want to tutor adults in reading, writing, math or computing. It includes an online segment to be completed independently and a required group session. The group session will be held on Saturday, October 25, 10 am to 3 pm at Marshwood Adult Education in South Berwick. For more information or to sign up for this training, please call the Marshwood Adult Education Office at 384-5703.

LVGS Receives Narragansett Number One Foundation Funding
July 22, 2014 -Literacy Volunteers of Greater Sanford (LVGS) is pleased to announce that it has been awarded a one-year grant of $7,000 by the Narragansett Number One Foundation of Buxton, Maine. LVGS is very grateful for this generous investment, which will support an ongoing literacy project with the York County Shelter Programs in Alfred.

The grant will provide funds for LVGS to reach out to adult residents of the York County Shelter Programs who may have literacy needs to assist them with short-term and long-term goals, including obtaining important documents, creating resumes, assessing literacy levels, and improving literacy skills in reading, writing, math and computing. The goal is to provide opportunities for people to build self-esteem and become more independent community members. Emphasis will be on services for residents of the Emergency Shelter in Alfred.

LVGS Celebrates Students' Growth, Courage Literacy Group also Honors Tutors, Donors at Annual Dinner
June 26, 2014 -Literacy Volunteers of Greater Sanford (LVGS) repeatedly showed evidence of that fact when the organization honored its students and tutors during its annual dinner at the Sanford Town Club on Wednesday, June 18. Read the Full Article

LVGS Celebrates Literacy
June 25, 2014 -Taking that first step is the toughest part. Those adults who have done it say walking into the literacy office and telling the folks you need help in reading, math or computer skills just isn't easy! Read the Full Article

Kennebunk Savings Customer Ballot Season
May 3, 2014 -Kennebunk Savings customers, please watch your mail for this year's ballot postcard and consider voting for Literacy Volunteers of Sanford! More Information

LVGS Announces Annual Student Recognition Dinner
April 28, 2014 - Literacy Volunteers of Greater Sanford (LVGS) is pleased to announce that its Fifteenth Annual Student Recognition Dinner will be held on Wednesday, June 18, 2014 at 5 pm at the Town Club in Sanford, with catering by Above and Beyond. The event is open to the public and we welcome newcomers.

The event includes recognition of students and tutors including several awards and speeches, a delicious dinner and the chance to be inspired by the courage and achievements of adult literacy students. The Cedar Mountain Bluegrass Band will provide musical entertainment.

LVGS supports the literacy needs of adults with free, confidential one-on-one tutoring by trained adult volunteers. Founded in 1986, LVGS helps adults improve their literacy levels and change their lives. We are grateful to have strong community support and to be a United Way of York County partner.

Tickets to the dinner are $15 per person. For reservations, please call the office at 324-2486 by Monday, June 9.

LVGS Receives United Way of York County Grants
April 8, 2014 - Literacy Volunteers of Greater Sanford (LVGS) today announced that it has been awarded two one-year grants by United Way of York County totaling $16,050. This investment will support programs focusing on health and workplace literacy and training volunteer tutors, and will have an impact on lifelong learning.

Through the mobilization of resources, expertise and funds that support programs focused on the essentials of education, financial stability and health, United Way of York County advances the common good and strengthens the whole community.

Thanks to the continued support of many dedicated individuals, businesses and organizations throughout York County, this year the United Way is investing in 65 community programs serving children, youth, adults and families.

"We applaud the generosity of so many who support United Way's work throughout the year," noted United Way of York County President & CEO Barb Wentworth. "As a result, in 2014 we are able to provide continued and much needed support for essential human services across the region. These important services are a critical component of our collective efforts to build an even stronger York County."

LVGS Announces Tutor Training
March 12, 2014 - Literacy Volunteers of Greater Sanford (LVGS) is pleased to announce a tutor training for new volunteer tutors in Adult Basic Education. Training sessions are free of charge.

The training includes an online segment, which may be completed independently or with support, and a session where everyone will meet together. The first session is for those who want support for the online component and will be held on Monday, April 7, from 10:00 am to 3:00 p.m. The second, required group session will be held on Monday, April 14, 10:00 am to 3:00 pm.

Both sessions will be held at the LVGS Office at 883 Main Street (in the Townhouse Mall), Suite 4, in Sanford.

Registration is required. For more information or to sign up, please call the LVGS office at 324-2486.

LVGS supports the literacy needs of adults with free, confidential one-on-one tutoring by trained adult volunteers.

Trivia Night Thanks
January 28, 2014 - On behalf of Literacy Volunteers of Greater Sanford, thank you very much to everyone who took part in and supported our Fifth Annual Trivia Night at the Town Club event on Friday, January 17. What a terrific evening! Special thanks to Marcel Blouin for emceeing the event, Gina and her team at Above and Beyond Catering for great appetizers and hospitality, all of the sponsors and donors to the raffle and live auction, and everyone who played on the teams! This year we had the largest turnout yet, with 20 teams, and it was a spirited competition. People have told me they had lots of fun and learned new things and that's a great combination!

Congratulations to the winning team, led by Frank Mahoney and including Jean and Dennis Brennan, Suzanne Gagnon, Cori Arsenault, Marilyn Stanley and Christine Aronson. Please mark your calendars and join us for next year's Trivia Night on Friday, January 16, 2015!

Literacy Volunteers offers free, confidential tutoring to adults so they can improve their literacy skills and change their lives. We are tremendously grateful for strong community support of our mission.

LVGS Receives Donation from SIS Bank

January 14, 2014 - Linda Nadeau of SIS Bank presents a donation of an Italian Dinner themed gift basket to be raffled off at the annual Town Club Trivia Challenge fundraiser held on January 17th by the Literacy Volunteers of Greater Sanford (LVGS). The event included team competition on trivia questions, a raffle, live auction, delicious appetizers and a lot of fun.

Left to Right: Ingrid Baily, Executive Director of Literacy Volunteers of Greater Sanford; Linda Nadeau of SIS Bank; and Jeanne Mahoney, Board Member of Literacy Volunteers of Greater Sanford.

LVGS Announces Tutor Training
January 13, 2014 - Literacy Volunteers of Greater Sanford (LVGS) is pleased to announce a tutor training for new volunteer tutors in Adult Basic Education. Training sessions are free of charge.

The training includes an online segment, which may be completed independently or with support, and a session where everyone will meet together. The first session is for those who want support for the online component and will be held on Monday, February 3, from 10:00 am to 3:00 p.m. The second, required group session will be held on Monday, February 10, 10:00 am to 3:00 pm.

Both sessions will be held at the LVGS Office at 883 Main Street (in the Townhouse Mall), Suite 4, in Sanford.

Registration is required. For more information or to sign up, please call the LVGS office at 324-2486.

LVGS supports the literacy needs of adults with free, confidential one-on-one tutoring by trained adult volunteers.

Sanford Springvale Rotary and SIS Bank to Sponsor LVGS Trivia Night at the Town Club
November 12, 2013 - Literacy Volunteers of Greater Sanford (LVGS) is pleased to announce their Fifth Annual Trivia Night at the Town Club on Friday, January 17, 2014. We are very grateful to Sanford-Springvale Rotary Club and SIS Bank for sponsoring the event again this year.

This lively event, which is a fundraiser for LVGS programs, takes place at the Town Club in the Sanford Trust Building and includes team competition on trivia questions and delicious appetizers. Trivia categories include geography, science, current events, literature, food, and television. A raffle and a live auction will also be held.

Tickets are $20 per person including appetizers. Teams need 4 to 8 people. If you don't have 4 people, please call us and we will match you with others for a team.

The doors open at 6 p.m. and the Trivia Game is 7 - 9 p.m.

Please join us for a fun evening of competition and entertainment hosted by emcee Marcel Blouin and catered by Above and Beyond!

To register for Trivia Night, please call the Literacy Volunteers office at 324-2486 or email lvgs@metrocast.net.

LVGS Receives Donation from The Fabulous Find Thrift Shop

August 15, 2013 - Literacy Volunteers of Greater Sanford (LVGS) is delighted to announce that it has received a grant of $3,494.34 for its programs from The Fabulous Find Thrift Shop in Kittery. "We are so grateful for this very generous donation, which will support our tutoring programs at the learning center and the Southern Maine Reentry Center in Alfred, assisting women inmates to pursue educational goals," said Executive Director Ingrid Baily.

The Fabulous Find Thrift Shop, a 501c3 non-profit organization, is a boutique style thrift shop that partners with different worthy, local non-profit organizations each month. All profits are donated to the organizations selected by their board for that particular month. Their overhead is low, and the more sales they do, the bigger the check awarded will be at the end of the month. In order to operate the shop and make this community giving effort possible, volunteers log hundreds of hours each year.

Receiving a check from the Fabulous Find Thrift
Shop on behalf of Literacy Volunteers: Student
Bruce Couture; Tutor Marcel Gagnon;
Executive Director Ingrid Baily; Board President
Geoff Titherington; Rachel Titherington.

Since opening in mid-July of 2010, The Fabulous Find has given out over $300,000 in donations to more than 40 non-profit organizations in York County and the Seacoast area.

To learn more about The Fabulous Find, see their website at www.fabulousfind.org or call them at 439-8669. Please "like" them on facebook. The web address is http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/The-Fabulous-Find/147271591957067. The shop recently moved to a larger space at 139 State Road in Kittery (Route One), and is open Monday-Saturday 9:30 am-5:30 pm and Sunday 11 am-4 pm.

LVGS Selected as Recipient of Donation from The Fabulous Find Thrift Shop
June 26, 2013 - Literacy Volunteers of Greater Sanford (LVGS) is delighted to announce that it has been selected as one of the recipients of profits from The Fabulous Find Thrift Shop in Kittery for the month of July. It will share the July profits with Ogunquit Arts Collaborative and Footprints Food Pantry.

The Fabulous Find Thrift Shop, a 501c3 non-profit organization, is a boutique style resale shop that partners with different worthy, local non-profit organizations each month. All profits are donated to the organizations selected by their board for that particular month. Their overhead is low, and the more sales they do, the bigger the check awarded will be at the end of the month. In order to operate the shop and make this community giving effort possible, volunteers log hundreds of hours each year. Since opening in mid-July of 2010, The Fabulous Find has given out over $300,000 in donations to more than 40 non-profit organizations in York County and the Seacoast area.

To learn more about The Fabulous Find, see their website at www.fabulousfind.org or call them at 439-8669. Please "like" them on facebook. The web address is https://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Fabulous-Find/147271591957067. The shop recently moved to a larger space at 139 State Road in Kittery (Route One), and is open Monday-Saturday 9:30-5:30 and Sunday 11-4. (view their flyer here)

Please join us for a reception at The Fabulous Find on Thursday, July 11th, 5:30-7:00 pm, and donate items and shop during the month of July! (view the invitation flyer here)

The mission of LVGS is supporting the literacy needs of adults with free, confidential one-on-one tutoring by trained adult volunteers. For more than twenty-five years, we have helped people improve their literacy levels and change their lives. Whether the goal is to prepare for the GED exam, understand a label on a prescription bottle, or read a bedtime story to a child, LVGS offers opportunities for adult learners to improve their literacy skills and achieve their goals relating to family, career, and community involvement. LVGS is grateful to have strong community support including from the United Way of York County.

LVGS Receives Narragansett Number One Foundation Funding
June 26 , 2013 - Literacy Volunteers of Greater Sanford (LVGS) is delighted to announce that it has been awarded a one-year grant of $7,000 by the Narragansett Number One Foundation of Buxton, Maine. LVGS is very grateful for this generous investment, which will support an ongoing literacy project with the York County Shelter Programs in Alfred.

Please join us on Wednesday, July 10th at 3:15 pm for the first meeting on this book-movie combination. We meet at the learning center at 883 Main Street Suite 4 in Sanford. Refreshments will be served.

Books and Blockbusters meets to watch movies and read the corresponding books and is open to the public, ages 18 and above. We seek new club members, especially adults who are new readers and who enjoy reading in a group with others of varied reading levels. We are grateful to Sanford Springvale Rotary for supporting this creative, fun program, which is offered free of charge.

Registration is required for Books and Blockbusters and other Literacy Volunteers programs. To request more information or to register, please call the office at 324-2486.

Changing Lives Through the Written Word
May 30, 2013 - Students, tutors and a local reporter were the stars of the evening when Literacy Volunteers of Greater Sanford held its annual dinner at the Sanford Town Club on Wednesday, May 22.

“We’re here tonight to celebrate how our programs changes our students’ lives,” LVGS Executive Director Ingrid Baily announced to more than 85 guests at the start of the evening.

LVGS President Geoff Titherington, his fellow board members and literacy volunteers presented several awards throughout the event that highlighted student achievement and the efforts of others to promote reading and other skills throughout the community.

LVGS Vice President John Rivard presented the organization’s Special Service Award to board member Jeanne Mahoney, whose commitment he praised as “unwavering.” Read the Full Article Here

SIS Donates iPad to Literacy Group
May 9, 2013 - Sanford Institution for Savings (SIS) recently donated an iPad to Literacy Volunteers of Greater Sanford (LVGS).“This generous gift will support our mission of meeting the literacy needs of children and adults,” LVGS Executive Director Ingrid Baily said. “When our clients can improve their reading and writing skills while also becoming more comfortable with tablet technology, it’s a win-win. SIS is really helping us make a difference.”LVGS, a 501c(3) nonprofit, uses one-on-one tutoring and small-group instruction to help adults reading below the ninth-grade level improve literacy and therefore quality of life, career opportunities, and more.“The Literacy Volunteers of Greater Sanford is a wonderful organization, and we hope that this donation helps improve lives now and in the future,” SIS President and CEO Mark Mickeriz said.

LVGS Executive Director Ingrid Baily, right,
accepts an iPad donation from SIS Bank
President and CEO Mark Mickeriz at SIS headquarters in Sanford.

LVGS Receives United Way of York County Grants
April 15, 2013 - Literacy Volunteers of Greater Sanford (LVGS) today announced that it has been awarded two one-year grants by United Way of York County totaling $15,870. This investment will support programs focusing on health and workplace literacy and training volunteer tutors, and will have an impact on lifelong learning.

Through the mobilization of resources, expertise and funds that support programs focused on education, income and health -- the building blocks of a good life -- United Way of York County advances the common good and strengthens the whole community.

The mission of LVGS is supporting the literacy needs of adults with free, confidential one-on-one tutoring by trained adult volunteers. Founded in 1986, LVGS helps adults improve their literacy levels and change their lives. Whether the goal is to fill out a job application, learn to use a computer, read a label on a prescription bottle or obtain a GED, LVGS offers opportunities for adult learners to improve their literacy skills and achieve their goals relating to family, career, and participation in civic affairs.

Thanks to the continued support of many dedicated individuals, businesses and organizations throughout York County, this year the United Way is investing in 67 community programs serving children, youth, adults and families.

"Despite continuing economic uncertainty in 2012, local people gave generously to our United Way campaign," said United Way of York County President and CEO Kathryn Davis. "As a result, in 2013 we are able to provide continued and much needed support for essential human services across the region."

If you would like to learn more about Literacy Volunteers, please call the office at 324-2486 or email us at lvgsanford@gmail.com.

Established in 1986, United Way of York County works to advance the common good of everyone in York County by focusing on the unique characteristics of our community and by strengthening programs focused on Education, Income and Health. By galvanizing individuals and organizations to act while mobilizing resources, expertise and funding, United Way of York County creates opportunities for residents through lifelong learning, financial stability and healthy foundations for life.

To learn more about United Way of York County and be a part of the change you want to see in your community, we invite you to visit www.buildcommunity.org or call 985-3359 to learn how you can Give, Advocate or Volunteer.

Kennebunk Savings Customer Ballot
March 27 , 2013 - Are you a customer of Kennebunk Savings? Their annual Customer Ballot is underway! Last year, customer votes for LVGS in this generous program brought us a donation of $190.00 for our programs. We would appreciate your vote!

Kennebunk Savings has mailed ballots to their customers. You can vote online by going to www.kennebunksavings.com/ballot or drop off your ballot at bank offices or mail them in using an envelope and stamp.

Thank you!

Annual Student Recognition Dinner
March 26 , 2013 - Literacy Volunteers of Greater Sanford (LVGS) is pleased to announce that its Fourteenth Annual Student Recognition Dinner will be held on Wednesday, May 22, 2013 at 5 pm at the Town Club in Sanford, with catering by Above and Beyond. The event is open to the public and we welcome newcomers.

Tickets to the dinner are $15 per person. For reservations, please call the office at 324-2486 by Wednesday, May 8. View the flyer here.

New Tutoring Program
March 13 , 2013 - Literacy Volunteers of Greater Sanford (LVGS) and Southern Maine Reentry Center (SMRC) are pleased to announce a new tutoring program. Through this partnership, LVGS volunteers are offering one-on-one tutoring to interested women residents at SMRC.

SMRC is a low-security women's facility of the Maine Department of Corrections that is located on the grounds of the York County Jail in Alfred. The residents are currently incarcerated and will be released within one to two years. Many women are working in the community now and are very hopeful to pursue their education and learning. Tutoring by LVGS volunteers is offered in reading, writing, math, and computing, and is tailored to each student's goals, such as preparing to take the GED test, improving literacy skills for the workplace, helping children with homework, and other tasks of daily living.

Studies show that literacy tutoring can play a critical role in helping an incarcerated person prepare for community life successfully and in reducing the chances that s/he will return to prison. Literacy tutoring helps adults to improve their skills and become more self-sufficient, increasing their ability to contribute to society, gain employment and pay taxes.

LVGS supports the literacy needs of adults with free, confidential one-on-one tutoring and other programs by trained adult volunteers. Founded in 1986, LVGS helps adults improve their literacy levels and change their lives. We are grateful to have strong community support and to be a United Way of York County partner. For more information, please call the office at 324-2486.

Trivia Night Thanks
February 11, 2013 - On behalf of Literacy Volunteers of Greater Sanford, thank you very much to everyone who took part in and supported our Fourth Annual Trivia Night at the Town Club fundraiser on Friday, January 18! It was a terrific evening, with a lively competition on trivia questions. Special thanks to Marcel Blouin for emceeing the event including the live auction, Gina and her team at Above and Beyond Catering for great appetizers and hospitality, Helen at Get Fired Up for our trophy, and all of the raffle and auction donors and supporters. This year we had the largest turnout yet, with 110 people playing on 16 teams. We are also very grateful to our three sponsors: Sanford-Springvale Rotary Club, SIS Bank, and Kennebunk Savings. With all of this support, Trivia Night net $3,100 to support our programs, 50% more than last year's event.

Congratulations to the winning team, which was led by Celina and Art Dumas and included Liz and Lyle Duell, Claudette and Howard Dupee, and Deb and Alden Thayer. If you would like to challenge them next year, pencil in this date for Trivia Night in 2014: Friday, January 17th!

Literacy Volunteers offers free, confidential tutoring to adults so they can improve their literacy skills and change their lives. We are so grateful for strong community support of our mission.

Ingrid Baily, Executive Director
Literacy Volunteers of Greater Sanford

The Beauty of LVGS
(Sanford News - January 10, 2013) - I am a new recruit to Literacy Volunteers. I attended the two day training program last summer and was immediately teamed up with a young man seeking help in obtaining his GED.

Before the training sessions I imagined I'd be helping people learn to read. Since I am passionate about reading, teaching others just seemed like "the right thing to do." After two days of training I realized reading is only a part, sometimes a small part, of the Literacy Volunteers program. And my new student soon convinced me that "literacy" covers many areas of learning.

My student -- whom I now call my friend -- is a bright twenty year old who made some mistakes in high school and quit, missing a couple of years of education. As he says, "I finally got my head screwed on straight and figured I'd never get anywhere if I don't get my GED." His biggest stumbling block is not reading -- it's math. As we work our way through fractions, decimals, averages and those tricky word problems, I am impressed with his commitment and his desire to follow through and reach his goal.

He is a mechanic with about five years experience and he smiles when I tell him that if he was trying to teach me what he knows about fixing cars I would be a much poorer student than he. I know he is appreciative of the opportunity Literacy Volunteers makes possible and of the time we spend each week. He may think that I bring more to our weekly sessions, but he would be wrong -- and that, perhaps, is the beauty of Literacy Volunteers, which brings together committed students and committed volunteers who each come away from the experience with renewed energy, skills and compassion. I wish I had volunteered years ago.

David Joy

Literacy Volunteers of Greater Sanford Announces Sponsors for Trivia Night at the Town Club

(Sanford, ME - January 7, 2013) - Literacy Volunteers of Greater Sanford (LVGS) is pleased to announce sponsorship support for their upcoming fundraiser, Trivia Night at the Town Club on Friday, January 18. Rotary Club of Sanford-Springvale is a major sponsor and Sanford Institution for Savings and Kennebunk Savings are sponsors.

Trivia Night takes place at the Town Club in the Sanford Trust Building and includes team competition on trivia questions in categories including geography, science, current events, literature, food, and television. Again this year, we will have raffle items and a live auction including tickets to a Boston Bruins game now that the NHL season is on.

Tickets are $20 per person including appetizers. Teams need 4 to 8 people. If you don't have 4 people, please call us and we will match you with others for a team.

The doors open at 6 p.m. and the Trivia Game is 7 - 9 p.m.

Please join us for a fun evening of competition and entertainment hosted by emcee Marcel Blouin and catered by Above and Beyond!

To register for Trivia Night, please call the Literacy Volunteers office at 324-2486 or email lvgs@metrocast.net. View the Brochure Here

LVGS Board President Receives Award

December 5 , 2012 - United Way of York County, in partnership with Kennebunk Savings, announced on Friday that Geoff Titherington, owner of Bonanza Restaurant in Sanford, has recently been awarded the 2012 York County Spirit of Service Award for commitment to service and impact in our community. Titherington serves as the board president of Literacy Volunteers of Greater Sanford and donates his time to a number of other local organizations. Read More

LVGS Receives Donation from Kennebunk Savings
November 13, 2012 - Literacy Volunteers of Greater Sanford (LVGS) is pleased to announce that it has received a $500 contribution from Kennebunk Savings to support its Literacy Project with the York County Shelter Programs in Alfred. LVGS is very grateful for Kennebunk Savings' continued support of its programs.

Books and Blockbusters
October 18, 2012 - The "Books and Blockbusters" Club will present the family movie "Holes" on Tuesday, October 30 at 6 p.m. at the Nasson Little Theatre in Springvale. The movie is free and open to the public. For more information, please call the Literacy Volunteers office at 324-2486.

Literacy Volunteers of Greater Sanford Announces "Technology Tuesdays"
October 11, 2012 - Are you a techie? Would you like to be? Literacy Volunteers of Greater Sanford is pleased to announce a new service called Technology Tuesdays.

On Tuesday, October 23rd and Tuesday, November 13th between 10 am and 2 pm, anyone wishing to learn more about technology can drop in to the Literacy Volunteers office for an introduction to such items as the Kindle, iphone, laptop, cell phone, or personal computer. If you have a new technology item such as a laptop or cell phone that you want help with, bring it with you. This is an opportunity to learn more about "tech gadgets" and meet others with similar interests.

To request more information, please call the office at 324-2486.

Fall 2012 Tutor Trainings
October 5, 2012 - Literacy Volunteers of Greater Sanford (LVGS) is pleased to announce two tutor trainings for new volunteer tutors in Adult Basic Education. Training sessions are free of charge.

Two different trainings are scheduled. The first will be on Friday, October 26 and Friday, November 2, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the LVGS Office at 883 Main Street (the Townhouse Mall), Suite 4, in Sanford. For more information or to sign up, please call the LVGS office at 324-2486.

The second training will be held partly online and partly face-to-face. The face-to-face session will be held on Saturday, October 13 from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm at Marshwood Adult and Community Education, 260 Route 236, in South Berwick. Online work needs to be completed before the October 13 meeting. For more information or to sign up for this training, call Marshwood Adult Education at 384-5703.

Literacy Volunteers of Greater Sanford Announces "Books and Blockbusters" will start on October 11 at Noon
September 25, 2012 - Literacy Volunteers of Greater Sanford has announced that the "Books and Blockbusters" book and movie club will meet for the first time on Thursday, October 11 at noon at the LVGS Learning Center for a pizza lunch. Please join us to help plan the club and pick up copies of the book "Holes" by Louis Sachar. There is no fee, but registration is required. To register or let us know you want to join but can not attend on October 11, please call the office at 324-2486.

September is National Literacy Month!
September 1, 2012 - In today's modern world, literacy includes the ability to use a computer and understand digital information, as well as skills in the traditional areas of reading, writing, and math. For more on digital literacy, click here.

Literacy Volunteers of Greater Sanford Announces "Books and Blockbusters" Sponsored by Sanford-Springvale Rotary
August 31 , 2012 - Literacy Volunteers of Greater Sanford is delighted to announce a new book-and-movie club called "Books and Blockbusters," sponsored by Sanford-Springvale Rotary Club.

The new club, which will meet to watch movies and read the corresponding books, is open to the public. The club will gather at the Nasson Little Theatre.

"Books and Blockbusters" will be a recurring program that will involve other films and books later this winter and next spring.

We are very grateful to Sanford Springvale Rotary for supporting this creative, fun new program, which is offered free of charge.

LVGS supports the literacy needs of adults with free, confidential one-on-one tutoring, small group instruction and other programs by trained adult volunteers. Founded in 1986, LVGS helps adults improve their literacy levels and change their lives. We are grateful to have strong community support and to be a United Way of York County partner.

Registration is required for "Books and Blockbusters" and other Literacy Volunteers programs. To request more information or to register, please call the office at 324-2486. Please stay tuned for upcoming scheduled dates and times.

LVGS is a top vote-getting nonprofit in the Kennebunk Savings Customer Ballot
June 27, 2012 - LVGS is happy to announce that we are a top vote-getting nonprofit in the Kennebunk Savings Customer Ballot program. We appreciate the Community Promise pledge by Kennebunk Savings to support community needs, being selected as a deserving organization by customers, and the donation of $190. Thank you very much for supporting our programs!

Kennebunk Savings President & CEO Bradford Paige presenting a check to LVGS Executive Director Ingrid Baily and Learning Center Coordinator Jen Bargioni, July 2012.

Literacy Volunteers of Greater Sanford Recognizes
Students and Tutors at Annual Dinner
June 12, 2012 - At Literacy Volunteers of Greater Sanford's Annual Student Recognition Dinner on May 23, eighty-five people gathered at the Town Club in downtown Sanford for a celebration of learning and the personal journeys that bring students and tutors to our programs.

The Student Achievement Award was given to Bernice Chadwick. Two pairs of adults working together received Student-Tutor Pair of the Year Award: Star Norton and Alicia Shortill, and Anita Fortin and Helen Bower. Chadwick and Fortin spoke about their experiences as students and expressed gratitude to their tutors, family members and other important people in their lives who have supported their goals of improving their literacy skills. Chadwick advised anyone considering seeking assistance here not to be afraid to walk in the door and to "do it for yourself, not for someone else."

Other awards and recognition at the event included: tutor and volunteer Marcel Gagnon spoke about his work on a shared literacy project with the York County Shelter Programs in Alfred, for which he received the Community Outreach Award; Altrusa International's Sanford-Springvale Club received the Literary Supporter Award; Ellen Pouravelis received the Special Service Award, and a new award was created to honor tutor and volunteer Linda B. Gulnac.

We are grateful for the work of all of the tutors and other volunteers and for the wonderful welcome and catering provided by Above and Beyond at the Town Club. Read more here.

U.S. Citizenship Success
May, 2012 - Literacy Volunteers of Greater Sanford is proud to announce that recently two of our students have passed the U.S. Citizenship exam! Both worked diligently for several years with their tutors to learn material, including the history, government and legal system of this country. Congratulations to them both and thank you to their tutors!

Scrabble Tournament Thanks
May, 2012 - On behalf of Literacy Volunteers of Greater Sanford, thank you very much to the participants in our Scrabble tournament on May 6 at the Trafton Senior Center. Ten teams of two people competed with good spirit and raised $275 for our mission. The winning team was the Brainiacs from Lewiston with more than 200 points per game! We are grateful to the players, pledge donors and Thea Murphy, Director of the Trafton Center, for helping us revive this event. Stay tuned for next year's Scrabble tournament!