One in five adult New Brunswickers struggles to read and write, that according to stats from the New Brunswick government website.
Most of those individuals do not have a high school diploma.
That was Sam’s story, until he found Laubach Literacy.
At one time, he couldn’t even read a bedtime story to his son, “For my child to come up to me, at four and a half years old, it was hard for me to try and read a book to him.”
He also felt hopeless when it came to dealing with documents that required reading, because his wife had to handle the work,” We bought a house together. She had to make sure she was doing all of the paperwork. She had to read all of the documents. She had to do everything. All I could to do was sign.”
Two and a half years ago, he began tutoring from Valarie Higgins from Laubach Literacy.
“We met at her office, and she started with basic books. She figured out exactly where I should start,” Sam says.
He has come a long way. He can now text, read and also write.
His hope is that more adults will also seek help.
“Just try it. Contact Laubach Literacy, you will not regret it. There are some people who are embarrassed that they can’t read, but that isn’t me. I wanted to get help, and I am thankful I did,” Sam says.
Sam’s next goal is to get his high school diploma,”I am shooting for one goal, to get my GED. You need to be able to read and write to get a job. I know quite a few people who have trouble reading and writing. I wish more people would just go, and take the first step.”
Sam is also pushing for workplaces to help employees who are struggling to read and write.
“My employer Glenwood Kitchens was also a huge support. The Owner, James McKenna helped to connect me with Laubach Literacy. I wish more employers would encourage their employees as well.”
To learn more about Laubach Literacy, click HERE
