Click here to read CFLC student Barbara Wiley's story, "A Snowy Day."

Why Learning to Read has Changed my Life

Before I could read I was scared to go to meetings at work where you might have to fill out some paperwork or get up with people you have never met. You need to write their names down. Everybody would have a scratch pad but you.

Reading has made me feel like I am somebody and I can make a difference at work and at home. I read the newspaper now, not all of it yet, but I'll soon be able to.

I have two boys. I could not read to my first boy when he was little. Now I read to my second boy every night and I love it. I think more than he does.

There are no words to describe how I feel about reading. It puts you on top of the world.

 - Jimmy

I won't ever be the big boss or have lots of money, but I am not ashamed anymore and my children read. Thank you for my tutor and books. You really care about us.

- This student started out on public assistance and now has a job. She has advanced three grade levels.

I used to look at the word and never attempt to read it. Now, I'm making the attempt and all of a sudden, it's shocking to me. I realize I'm reading. I'm driving in my truck and see a sign and I think, 'Holy cow! I just read it. What's happening?'

- Student

I was in a low-end job and although I really understood machinery, I couldn't move up because I couldn't read to pass the exams.

- This student learned to read and got some job training. Today he runs his own business employing six people.

I work 65 hours a week at my job and 15 hours a week doing things to get a higher education at the Literacy Council. It's hard, but it's worth it to me.

- Starting from the alphabet, this student now reads at an eighth grade level

Now I can finally do something for myself I always wanted to do. Now I can read so I will be able to go and take a nursing aide course at Cape Fear Community College .

- This student developed the skills she needed to succeed in further education while working with a volunteer tutor.