Dear Friends of Literacy –

The past year has been one of transition for ReadWest. Change demands work. I’d like to thank each of you for your support.

In 2009 we will celebrate 20 years (1989 – 2009) of providing the gift of literacy to adults in Rio Rancho, Corrales, Bernalillo and Northwest Albuquerque. You will hear more about our celebration during September – National Literacy Month.

Will Steinsiek, our new Executive Director and Muncie Hansen, Program Coordinator, came on board in September. The Board of Directors is excited about their progress in the midst of unprecedented student growth. For those of you who serve as ReadWest tutors, you know there are few more rewarding moments than when your student’s light bulb goes off, often unexpectedly. Our tutors are the best this state has to offer. Their creativity and ability to adapt to a learner-based curriculum is inspiring. This is volunteerism at its best and we want to share this experience with as many people as we can. Too many students are waiting for tutors. Please call the office for more information and to sign-up for our world-class tutor trainings.

ReadWest has a host of volunteer opportunities beyond tutoring - in the office or in the fundraising sector. ReadWest is home to a wonderful family of volunteers; each one valued in whatever capacity they choose.

We are also so very proud of our hard working students who diligently pursue their paths to excellence. It’s astounding to see the amount of energy emanating from these dynamic individuals. Thank you students, for choosing ReadWest and allowing us to share your dreams.

I am proud to announce that The New Mexico Coalition for Literacy and the United Way of Central New Mexico have provided funds to ReadWest for FY 2009-10, which will go a long way in providing for our ever increasing numbers of students. There were other funding sources that we will not be able to rely on this next year, however. Therefore, our fundraising efforts will need to be increased to compensate for the loss of those funds.

This is the first year we participated in the H&R Block Fundraiser. For new H&R Block clients who have their taxes prepared between 01/01/09 and 11/01/09 and supply the ReadWest Non-Profit (ID #4000-27554-65479), H&R Block will donate $25.00 to ReadWest. Referral forms are available at the ReadWest office and can also be e-mailed upon request.

We continue to participate in the Albertsons Community Partners Program. There is no cost to you and we will benefit greatly with your help. Albertson’s Community Partners cards are available at ReadWest. Each time you shop have the clerk scan the card before check out and ReadWest will earn 1% of your shopping.

Did you know that for only $192 you can support one student at Readwest for a year? A pledge of just $16 a month can do the same and spread your gift throughout the year. Since ReadWest is a nonprofit organization, your gift will be tax deductible and we will send you a statement for tax purposes. Contact the office for more information.

Marten Griego is a graduate of ReadWest’s Basic Literacy program who has self-published his award winning inspirational memoir, Leaving the House of Tears. Marten is one of the most positive people you will ever meet. Marten is a dynamic inspirational and motivational speaker. He has made over 50 presentations in support of adult literacy this year, and often begins with how lucky he is to have found ReadWest and his amazing tutor. You may want to consider organizing a group to hear Marten speak. Marten speaks nationally and his new goals are to raise a million dollars for adult literacy and to speak at the United Nations. To accomplish his first goal, Marten is donating a portion of sales of Leaving the House of Tears to New Mexico Literacy Programs. Your purchase of a copy of Marten’s book will benefit ReadWest. Call ReadWest for more information.

ReadWest is proud to have served you for 20 years. And we are proud of the volunteers who make our Adult Literacy Program possible.

Heather Phillips
President of the Board
ReadWest, Inc.