Providing Snacks for Students

One of the perks of attending classes at CCC or the PVLA is that you’re provided with snacks.

It may not seem like a huge thing to offer snacks to students. In some cases, it may seem frivolous or “extra,” especially with increasing food prices, but our students appreciate the gesture so much.

When a person is hungry, this increases fatigue and irritation. Hunger also has an impact on the amount of information the brain can retain. Fueling the brain and body is essential, which is why having snacks available for our students is incredibly important.

The Cost of Providing Snacks

In a typical week, the PVLA and CCC Adult Education see 200+ students attending classes. Not all of these students eat a snack every week, but having them available is beneficial.

The cost of providing snacks, including granola bars, fruit snacks, chips, and water, among others, averages about $300.00 per month.

When the numbers are broken down, it becomes apparent that providing snacks for students each month is a little over $1 per student—and that’s incredibly affordable.

The funding for these delectable treats comes from generous donors. So far in 2024, our Snack Sponsors are the following:

Richard and Mary Lou Stamm

In addition to our Snack Sponsors, our students also contribute to the Snack Fund. We have a jar in the snack corner, and students will contribute what they can. It all ensures that there are snacks to keep our students strong while studying.

$1 Truly Can Make a Difference

$1 may not seem like a lot, but it can provide one student with a snack—and that’s a pretty big deal. As the amount of the donation increases, the number of students that are impacted also goes up.

To become a Snack Sponsor, we ask that you make a minimum donation of $300, but if that amount seems out of range, anything you donate will ensure that students have the fuel they need to keep learning.

If this sounds like an opportunity you’re interested in pursuing, there are a variety of ways you can donate funds. You can head to our PayPal donation site.

Should you prefer the “old fashioned” method of sending a check, you can mail it to:

PVLA
3020 18th St, Box 3, Suite 4
Columbus, NE 68601

We also take in-kind donations. If you prefer to purchase food items and bring them to us, we’ll take those as well.

Snacks Make an Impact

Food is a love language.

Despite the rising cost of groceries, it doesn’t take much to make a student’s day. For just $1, you can ensure they have a snack that will keep them focused while they are learning.

Got questions? Fill out the form on the right-hand side of this blog or send an email to pvlacolumbusne @ yahoo.com (don’t forget to remove the spaces).

Volunteering for the PVLA

For many, the thought of being a volunteer sounds like a huge commitment. Not only do you have to invest your time, but also effort. If you already work a full-time job and have a family, adding one more thing to your plate might seem impossible.

However, there are benefits to being a volunteer.

Yes, you will have to make a commitment, but what you get out of your time and effort can pay off in the long run. Here are some of the benefits that come with becoming a volunteer:

1. The Ability to Make a Difference

If you’ve ever wanted to make an impact, then becoming a volunteer for a nonprofit organization should be on your list. You’ll have the opportunity to impact individuals and the larger community. You’ll feel a sense of pride and accomplishment knowing that you made a positive impact on others.

2. Improve Your Professional Skills

Whether you’re looking to advance your professional career or just want to be the best in your current position, being a volunteer can improve your skillset. As a volunteer for the PVLA, you'll learn how to communicate and interact with individuals from different countries and help them gain skills and knowledge that will make them successful in the classroom and in life. 

You'll also learn how to convey information to others in a way that's easy to understand. This can increase your knowledge in a variety of subjects and help you learn new things.

3. Gain Insight and Exposure

Serving as a volunteer gives you insight into the operations of an organization, as well as exposes you to other industries, markets, and business strategies. Having this information can help you think about your own business differently or help you transition to another company or industry.

4. Find Inspiration and Motivation

If you feel like your life or career has hit a dead end or you’re stuck in a rut, then serving as a volunteer can be inspirational and motivating. Becoming a mentor or knowing that the decisions you’re making are having an impact on the lives of individuals and the community can be incredibly gratifying. You’ll feel like you have a purpose and can support a cause that you are truly passionate about.

Increase Your Visibility and Do Something Good

Making the decision to become a volunteer shouldn’t be taken lightly. It does involve time and effort, and you have to be willing to dedicate both. However, you aren’t just giving without getting in return. There are many benefits to being a volunteer.

If service to others is something you’ve been thinking about, and you’re passionate about literacy and adult education, then you might want to consider volunteering for the PVLA.

Volunteer Opportunities at the PVLA

Conversational English

These volunteers will work one-on-one with students to help them with their conversational English skills. This might include helping them introduce themselves or have a conversation about the weather. Students may request to speak about certain subjects, but if they are open to anything, the tutor may use “conversation starters” or other materials to encourage students to converse in English. Curriculum is available at the PVLA.

Computer/Digital Literacy

Having computer experience is necessary to ensure that students are learning the skills they need to navigate the digital world. Sessions may include one-on-one or small group lessons. The tutor may need to begin with the basics, including showing students how to turn on and log in to a computer. 

Then, lessons may expand from there and include creating an email address and learning how to navigate the internet. Students will direct the tutor in the skills and knowledge they need to become computer literate.

Laptops are available at PVLA for student and tutor use. Some curriculum is also available at PVLA, but tutors will need to be aware of current trends and technological information.

Outreach Classroom Assistant

Outreach classroom assistants will accompany instructors to businesses in the city of Columbus and help with lessons. An outreach class session lasts for 12 weeks and can be anywhere from 1 hour to 2 hours long per day (typically, tutors are not needed more than 2 days per week). The Outreach instructor will provide instructions and details as to what type of help they will need in the classroom each week.

Citizenship

USCIS materials are incredibly beneficial in ensuring that students have the knowledge they need to pass the naturalization interview and test; however, there are other resources available as well. Non-USCIS materials may be used if they have been reviewed and approved by the PVLA executive director. 

Some students will be looking to practice for the citizenship interview, so knowing what questions are asked about the N-400 is beneficial. Students will direct tutors as to what they want and need to focus on to be ready for their testing appointment. Citizenship materials are available at the PVLA and online.

Want to know more about the process? Fill out the contact form on the right-hand side of the blog or send an email to pvlacolumbusne @ yahoo.com.

Giving Thanks

Photo by Kelly

It’s that time of year when people count their blessings. They take a look at their life and give thanks for the events and people who have had a big impact.

Here that the PVLA, we have so much to be thankful for.

Individuals Who Make it Happen

One of the biggest things we are thankful for here at the PVLA are the donors who give their time or resources to help students. From Snack Sponsors to volunteer tutors to volunteer instructors, individuals giving what they can makes a huge impact on the lives of students.

The opportunity for students to have a cup of coffee or grab a small treat means the world to them. They are working hard to improve their lives (and the lives of their families), so being able to take a break and refuel is essential, and being able to offer snacks wouldn’t be possible without Snack Sponsors. They include the following:

• Angie Biester – donation through Thrivent
• Richard and Mary Lou Stamm
• Walmart – donation of a grant
• Columbus Bank & Trust Co.
• Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church

Snack donations from Columbus Bank & Trust

Having volunteer instructors and tutors who freely give their time to make sure students understand a particular topic or have information to learn a new one is life-changing—literally. The topics they are learning in a class or one-on-one lessons could be exactly what they need to pass a test or apply for a better job. Without individuals willing to help out, students wouldn’t be filled with the knowledge they need to improve their lives.

Bill Podraza (volunteer instructor) with his Conversational English class.

The PVLA wouldn’t be where it is today without the dedication and guidance of its board of directors. These individuals make decisions that empower students to reach their educational goals and ensure that the PVLA continues to be an integral part of the Columbus community.

Partnerships with the Community

Individuals play a huge role in supporting students, but we couldn’t do much without the community. Our partnership with CCC Adult Education provides the technology and classroom space that keep our students learning.

The Columbus Area United Way allocates a large percentage of funding that ensures we can pay our high-quality instructors and obtain up-to-date materials and equipment for the classrooms.

There are also many other foundations and organizations that believe in the mission of the PVLA and have provided funds to help students reach their educational goals. They include:

• Tyson Foods
• The Nebraska Presbyterian Foundation
• Dollar General
• The Union Pacific Community Ties Giving Program

Our partnership with Columbus Public Schools and CCC to offer Family Learning has expanded this year and allows us to reach a whole new set of students and provide them with language skills that will help them and their families be successful in life.

Further connections with the community are made when individuals and businesses are invited to speak directly to students in Family Learning and the Integration Class about their services. There are so many amazing people who have volunteered their time to talk about what they have to offer so that our students know more about the Columbus community.

There are also the partnerships with manufacturers here in town. These companies go out of their way to schedule Outreach Classes to ensure their employees have the skills that allow them be successful at work and beyond. Whether they are learning English or conversational Spanish, these businesses are breaking down barriers and making all of their employees feel valued inside the company walls and in the larger community.

Students, instructors, and supervisors from the Vishay Outreach ESL class.

Let’s not forget that Cruise & Associates also took the time and effort to put together a bowling fundraiser that raised $1,000 for the PVLA. It gives us a warm, fuzzy feeling to know we are part of such a generous, kind, and caring community.

Cruise & Associates employees who participated in the bowling fundraiser.

More to Come

This year has been incredibly busy with the development of new classes and partnerships, as well as the maintenance of classes that have been in existence for a long time. The PVLA has been around since the 1980s, and we continue to thrive and survive because of the support of foundations, individuals, and members of the community.

We are so thankful for our donors, whether they give their time or money. This year may be drawing to a close, but that doesn’t mean we’re done. There are still so many ways for you to support the PVLA and its mission, and there’s a whole new year to get involved and see what we have planned for our students.

Thank You!

Meet The T-Shirt Design Winner

Tammi Gotschall (CCC ESL instructor and PVLA board member) presents Alexei

with his check for winning the PVLA T-shirt design contest.

The winner of the T-shirt design contest was Alexei Mendez Silva. Alexei is originally from Cuba, and he decided to design a T-shirt because he wanted to be involved in this institution (the PVLA) and to represent the New Americans.

He picked this particular design because he feels that it represents the education and dedication that the PVLA offers.

His hopes and dreams for the future are to join healthcare. 

In his own words: "I am thankful for everything PVLA has done for me, not only in my educational goals but my personal growth as well."

Support Alexei and Other Students

If you'd like to support Alexei and the other students who attend CCC and PVLA classes, please consider buying a T-shirt. They can be found online at Custom Ink.

The United Way Fundraising Campaign is About to Begin

It’s that time of year again when the local United Way will be visiting businesses to ask for donations. For many, this can feel cringey and weird. No one wants to feel like they are being pressured into giving money.

Thankfully, the United Way isn’t pressuring you into giving money, but they do want you to be informed about the amazing programs and services that your donations support. As a United Way Partner Agency, the PVLA hopes that you’ll consider helping out your community. It doesn’t take much to make a big difference.

Here is what the Columbus Area United Way does:

United Way fights for education, financial stability, and health of every person in every community. We are a part of the world’s largest charity but are known as a hyper local organization for Columbus area serving the counties of Boone, Colfax, Platte, and Nance.

MISSION: To focus resources to measurably improve the education, health, and financial stability of our community.

WHAT WE DO

Columbus Area United Way is a nonprofit dedicated to impacting our community in critical areas identified by the community through community-based assessments. Columbus Area United Way focuses on the three pillars of Education, Financial Stability, and Health. The Board of Directors, through a strategic initiative, identified the following areas of focus through 2024.

Education

• Kindergarten Readiness
• Improve and maintain community public schools 4-year graduation rates

Financial Stability

• Adults improve job relevant skills
• Ensure basic needs are met

Health

• Community members educated on healthier lifestyle choice
• Decrease suicide attempts of youth

In taking this approach, we have the unique ability to convene, collaborate, and direct resources where they are most needed. CAUW conducts community needs assessments, secures critical resources to fund vital social services, provides fiscal oversight and accountability for community partners, and evaluates program results to measure and communicate community impact.

We also provide local employers, employees, and other donors a cost-effective system to address community needs while allowing other local agencies and programs to concentrate more on serving and less on fundraising.

CAUW gives people a trustworthy place to donate funds, knowing that their dollars will go to meet the greatest areas of need in the community, and money raised locally stays in the community. Our local United Way has contributed more than $8.5 million in the last 10 years alone!

WHY WE DO IT

• We want to help the 42% of single mom families that are in poverty become financially stable.
• Because 16% of 10th graders report having suicidal thoughts and they need to know they are worthy and valued. Reducing risky behaviors leads to a healthy lifestyle, which leads to overall stability.
• Studies indicate if a child is behind by third grade, chances are much greater that they will not graduate from high school. CAUW focuses on having children ready for Kindergarten and on a student’s social/emotional health during their academic years to be prepared for life.

THE VALUE OF THE UNITED WAY BRAND

• We hope to see our children succeeding, our families strengthened, and our community thriving.
• United Way is ranked #1 on Forbes 2018 list of 100 largest US charities.
• The United Way brand is recognized by 85% of the public and in 95% of US workplaces.
• 78% of employees surveyed nationally want to work for a company that gives back and are proud of their employer’s support of United Way.
• We are committed to efficiency, transparency, and accountability. CAUW conducts thorough research that supports our community investments. CAUW advocates for programming that provides impact, stability, and growth for our community members. CAUW has compassionate and knowledgeable volunteer leadership from individuals just like you.
• There are a range of studies that consistently demonstrate that there is a significant relationship between volunteering and good health, in addition to the social benefits brought about by volunteering. For example, a report by United Health Group, Doing Good is Good for You: 2013 Health and Volunteering Study, found that 76% of US adults who volunteer report that volunteering has made them feel physically healthier, and 78% report that volunteering lowers their levels of stress, leading to feeling better than adults who do not volunteer.

Where Does My Donation Go?

Photo by Tima Miroshnichenko

Recently, there were articles in the paper that talked about how a nonprofit was not receiving all of the donations they were supposed to receive. In fact, most of the money was going to the company that helped them raise the funds.

As a donor, that can feel really icky. It may make you wonder why you’re donating money at all. Your goal is to help people, but if they aren’t receiving the money, what’s the point of donating?

We would like to tell you that this doesn’t happen often; that most nonprofits get 100% of their donations, but we can’t. What the newspaper article talks about is actually a pretty common practice.

You are a generous person. You are doing what you can to make a difference in the world, and it can be incredibly frustrating and surprising to know that your donation isn’t doing what you thought it would do.

Here at the PVLA, we can’t speak for other nonprofits, but we can tell you where your money is going when you donate to us.

Where Your Donation Goes

The first thing to keep in mind when you donate to the PVLA is that we don’t use a middle man to help us raise funds. We either apply for grants or take donations directly. That eliminates needing to pay an outside source for fundraising services.

There is a bit of a caveat in that statement, however. The only time we may not receive the full amount of a donation is if you donate through our online site. Then, the company that processes your payment will take a small fee. However, you have the option of covering that fee, and then we get 100% of the money you donate.

Once you make a donation, how the money is used depends on whether or not restrictions have been placed on the gift.

When it comes to grants, those are typically allocated to a specific purpose, so the money can only be spent on certain things. This blog post gives more information about grants.

When it comes to donations from individuals or private donors, it’s possible for you to allocate your money to a specific program or endeavor. If you do that, the PVLA can only spend the money according to your wishes.

 
However, if you don’t specify how you want your money spent, then it might go into the General Fund. That means the money can be spent at the discretion of the executive director and/or the board of directors. Your money may be used for cleaning supplies or classroom supplies, potentially even to pay instructor salaries. It will be used where it’s most needed.

The Benefits of General Funds

Hearing that your donation might go into the General Fund might sound disconcerting. You might be thinking that buying cleaning supplies isn’t a good use of your money.

That’s fine. It’s your donation, so if you want it to be used in a specific way, let us know.

However, there are benefits to having money in the General Fund.

Sure, buying cleaning supplies doesn’t sound overly helpful or generous, but it does make a difference. Students deserve to come to a clean learning environment, and money is needed to buy those supplies.

Using General Funds to pay for overhead costs, including salaries or bills, is also beneficial. If bills aren’t paid, then we lose our building. If people aren’t paid, then there’s no one here to run the nonprofit.

General Funds are the lifeblood of what we do. Yes, it’s nice and beneficial to have funding for programs, but we also need to keep the lights on—and that’s what the General Fund does.

Having unrestricted funds is just as important as getting grants. We need money for a variety of expenses that are part of running our nonprofit.

All Donations Welcome

Making a donation to a nonprofit is an incredibly generous thing to do, and it does help others. However, we get that it can be upsetting and disheartening to know that the money isn’t going where it’s supposed to go or that the full amount isn’t making an impact.

However, here at the PVLA, all donations make a difference and make an impact on students—whether they are grants allocated to a specific program or unrestricted gifts that may find themselves in the General Fund.

You don’t even have to donate a huge amount to make an impact. If you read this blog post, you’ll see that even $1 can make a difference.

Again, we can’t speak for all nonprofits. There are places that don’t see all the money they raise, but when you donate to us, we use that money to ensure our students are taken care of in a variety of beneficial ways.

The United Way Campaign

You’ve seen the posts on Facebook. You probably got an email announcement in your inbox. There have been articles in the paper. Soon, the United Way will be visiting your place of employment.

The United Way Campaign has begun.

But what exactly does this mean? Why does this event seem to crop up at the same time every year? Is there a way to avoid it?

The answers to your burning questions are included below.

What is the United Way Campaign?

To answer this question, it’s important to understand exactly what the United Way does. According to its website:

“United Way brings people together to build strong, equitable communities where everyone can thrive. As one of the world's largest privately funded charities, we serve 95% of U.S. communities and 37 countries and territories -- making life better for 48 million people every year. Through United Way, communities tackle tough challenges and work with private, public, and nonprofit partners to boost education, economic mobility, and health resources.”

To achieve those goals, they need funding.

And they get most of those funds through donations.

The mission of the Columbus Area United Way (CAUW) is to make sure community members here and in the surrounding area have what they need to be successful in life. Just like the larger United Way, to achieve those goals, they need funds—and most of the money comes from donations.

That brings us to the Campaign. After determining the needs of Community Partners, the CAUW sets out to raise the funds that ensures services are provided to those who need it.

A Variety of Ways to Get Involved

If supporting your local community is something that interests you, then donating to the CAUW might be a good idea. They partner with 15 different agencies in Platte County, as well as have direct programs that impact individuals and families.

When it comes to making a donation, there are many different ways to get involved. If you’re the type who likes to take risks and wants to potentially win some prizes, then participating in the Duck Race might be your cup of tea.

You also have the option of making a one-time donation or making multiple donations throughout the year. The CAUW even makes it easy to make year-round donations by taking pledges directly out of your paycheck.

You also get to decide where your money goes.

If you want to place your donation in the general fund, it will get divided up and distributed to the various partner agencies and programs. Should you decide you want your donation to go to a specific cause, you can designate where your money goes.

Can You Avoid the United Way Campaign?

We really hope you don’t.

We get it. It can feel cringy and uncomfortable when the United Way comes around and asks for money. You don’t want to let anyone down, but you may also feel like you can’t make a huge difference.

Let us reassure you: it doesn’t take much to make a difference.

When it comes to the Duck Race, one duck costs $10, and you have the chance to win some amazing prizes.

When it comes to donations, you can give as little or as much as you can afford. Even if you can only give $1.00 a month, you’re still doing something that impacts a member of the community. Even a one-time donation of $20 makes a difference.

Get Involved with the United Way

The United Way Campaign is underway, and we really hope you’ll find a way to get involved. As a United Way Partner Agency, the PVLA benefits from the generous donors who live in Columbus and the surrounding area—but we’re not the only ones. There are many, many organizations who work with the CAUW to make our corner of Nebraska such an amazing place to live.

Get involved today!

The PVLA Needs T-Shirt Design Ideas

Photo by Anomaly on Unsplash

The PVLA has been wanting to make T-shirts for a while, but we can’t decide what they should look like.

That’s why we’re asking for your help.

We want you to help us design PVLA T-shirts that we can sell to help raise money for students.

How to Enter

Throughout the month of June, the PVLA will accept T-shirt design ideas. You can send them through email or through snail mail to:

Platte Valley Literacy Association
3020 18th St, Box 3
Columbus, NE 68601

Who Can Enter

Anyone! From 5 to 95, if you have a T-shirt design idea, we want to see it.

Design Selection

At the end of June, after all design ideas have been sent in, throughout the month of July, the community will then vote on their favorites.

Prizes

What’s a contest without prizes?

• 1st place: $100 and your design on a T-shirt that will be available for sale
• 2nd place: $50
• 3rd place: $20

Join in on the Fun

We hope that you’ll join in on the fun. If you have any questions about the contest, please fill out the form on the right-hand side of the blog or send an email to pvlacolumbusne @ yahoo.com (don’t forget to remove the spaces!).

What Does it Mean to Get Grants?

Photo by 金 运 on Unsplash

If you follow our Facebook page, then you’ve probably noticed a lot of posts about grants that the PVLA has received. You might be thinking: Wow! Good for them!

You might also be thinking: What’s up with all these grants? What exactly is a grant?

And these are reasonable questions. This post will help clear up any confusion. 😊

What Are Grants?

In essence, grants are funds that are awarded to a nonprofit from some type of foundation, organization, or business. More often than not, the PVLA has to apply for these funds, and the awarding entity decides if our cause is worthy of money.

Grant funds are typically restricted, which means that they can only be used for a specific program or purpose.

For example, the PVLA offers a wide range of classes, including Book Club, Integration Class, Conversational English, Citizenship, etc. While all of these classes are amazing and help students become successful, they are not all covered by grant money.

Some organizations prefer to fund very specific programs, such as Tyson Foods awarding a grant specifically for the Introductory ESL class.

Or the Nebraska Presbyterian Foundation specifically sending money for the Integration and Citizenship classes.

When a grantor restricts funds to specific programs, the PVLA can only spend the money on those specific programs.

And those are perfectly reasonable and accepted practices. Every entity has something different they are interested in and want to support, so they send funds to help with causes/classes they care about.

Why So Many Grants?

And that brings us to why the PVLA has so many grants. With each one being allocated to a specific program, we need to make sure we have the funds necessary to pay instructors and provide students with up-to-date learning materials.

That’s why we have received so many grants recently. Each one takes care of a different program and ensures our nonprofit has what it needs to provide for students.

Having that many grants is a good thing. It means that others are invested in our mission and want to see the PVLA and our students succeed.

Grants Are Not Guaranteed

One thing to keep in mind with grants is that they are not guaranteed. The PVLA has been incredibly lucky to receive the funds that we have, and the money is used exactly for what it’s supposed to be used for.

We are so grateful to the foundations, organizations, and businesses that have awarded us grants so far this year. Again, it shows that these other places are just as invested in our mission as we are. With those funds, we get to keep providing services.

Celebrate Good Times

So, when you see a post on Facebook or even here on the blog talking about grants that the PVLA has been awarded, we hope that you celebrate with us. A win for us is a win for our students, which in turn is a win for Columbus. 

We are all intertwined, and what benefits one of us, benefits us all.

Once again, here’s a big THANK YOU to the entities that have awarded us grants so far:

Tyson Foods

Columbus Area United Way

Our local Walmart

Nebraska Presbyterian Foundation

Dollar General

Product Donations for the PVLA

Sending money isn’t the only way to support adult ESL students. Sometimes, all they need is a bit of caffeine to jolt them awake after they’ve been at work all day, a snack to give them the energy to keep learning, or the right supplies to take notes and organize their lessons.

It’s the little things in life that make the biggest differences, and having the right supplies keeps our students studying!

Access our Walmart registry link here!

Technology to Help Teachers

You may recall that a while back, the PVLA announced that it was using Taste of Columbus funds to buy laptops for students. They have been a great addition to the classrooms, and students are getting a lot of use out of them.

In addition to providing technology for students, it also came to our attention that our instructors needed technology to do their jobs as well. In particular, our instructors needed computers for lessons when they travel to off-site class locations.

To ensure they have the tools they need to educate students, more Taste of Columbus money was used to purchase Chromebooks—and they are just as fancy as the laptops!

Thankful to Be Able to Serve Students

The PVLA is so grateful to the Columbus Chamber of Commerce for the opportunity to be involved in the Taste of Columbus. Without the funds, we wouldn’t be able to provide these essential tools that help with student learning success.

Our programs continue to grow, and with that, our teachers need resources, and that often requires funding. The PVLA has some incredibly amazing donors, and we are thankful for their continued support so that we can continue to serve students.

The Impact Made by CCC Adult Education and the PVLA

Living in Columbus, Nebraska, is an incredibly unique experience. There’s a lot of opportunity here, and it’s at a crossroads that leads to a variety of different places—both literal and figurative.

While most people are able to grab their piece of the American pie living here, there are some that find obstacles in the way. Here at the PVLA, in cooperation with CCC Adult Education, we do our best to help individuals bridge those barriers.

Some Insight Into Why What We Do Is So Important

Did you know that 11% of the population in Platte County doesn’t have a high school diploma? That can be a huge hindrance when it comes to finding high-paying jobs.

Data from Casey Family Community Opportunity Map 

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, 25% of the population in Columbus speaks a language other than English.

When it comes to employment in Platte County, we have a 2% unemployment rate, with a 7% poverty rate, but 27% of households are under the 200% poverty level.

Data from Casey Family Community Opportunity Map

People are working, but they are having a hard time making ends meet. What these numbers don’t show is what is holding these individuals back from living their best life, but the possibility exists that it’s education, English-speaking skills, or status.

The vast majority of Nebraskans are aware of the labor shortage. With a 2% unemployment rate, that means that everyone who wants a job, has a job. Yet, there are many, many positions in all fields throughout the state and particularly in Platte County and the surrounding area that need to be filled.

But where to find workers? There just aren’t enough individuals in the state of Nebraska to fill every role, which means that having individuals comes from outside the state, and potentially outside the country, can be incredibly beneficial.

According to the American Immigration Council, in 2021, 7.3% of Nebraska’s residents were foreign-born. They made up 9.2% of the labor force, and they contributed more than $1.2 billion dollars in taxes to the economy and had more than $3.5 billion in spending power.

 

Data from the American Immigration Council 

The largest population of immigrants in the state are aged 16 to 64, which means they are in the prime of their life and looking to start or maintain families. To do that, they need the right means, which includes having a job and community security.

Within Platte County, 11% of the population is foreign born.

Data from the Casey Family Community Opportunity Map

 

Of those in the state of Nebraska, only 69.2% of them are proficient in English. When it comes to education, 36.5% of individuals have less than a high school education. While some immigrants have a high school education and advanced degrees, due to the differences in education systems, their achievements may not always be recognized here in the U.S.

Data from the American Immigration Council 

Building Bridges Over Barriers

Individuals migrate to the U.S. for opportunity, and they come to Platte County and Columbus because there is a lot of opportunity to be had. However, to ensure they are successful in creating a secure life for themselves and their families, there are certain skills they need to attain.

The PVLA and CCC Adult Education is here to help. Our mission is to break down barriers and give people a chance to live their dreams. We empower students to obtain their educational goals and provide the skills and knowledge that they need to be successful in life.

In addition to the programs we have offered for years and years, we have started new programs, including the Integration Class, which helps newcomers to the area transition into the community and become aware of the various services that are here to help, as well as the Family Learning program, which is in place to help parents not only learn the English language but to also understand how the U.S. education system works so that they can help their children be successful.

The need for workers is only going to grow in the future. With that opportunity comes individuals who are willing, ready, and able to work—even if they weren’t born in this country. There may be barriers that stand in their way, but they aren’t permanent. There are ways to break down those obstructions and give people exactly what they need to reach their dreams, and the PVLA and CCC are proud and honored to be part of that journey.

Why Being a United Way Partner Agency Is a Big Deal

If you’ve read any of the history of the Platte Valley Literacy Association, you’ve noticed that it says we’ve been a United Way Partner Agency for decades (more than 30 years). While this sounds good, what exactly does it mean? Why is being a United Way Partner Agency such a big deal?

This blog will do its best to give you some answers.

What Is a Partner Agency?

The simple answer to this question is that United Way Partner Agencies provide services to individuals within a community to address specific needs that the United Way has determined are important to quality of life. They have named these their Three Pillars. Those pillars include:

• Health
• Education
• Financial Stability

These categories are pretty broad and general, and then it’s up to the local United Way to develop criteria under each heading that best serves the people living in the area. The local United Way then works with “Partner Agencies” to ensure that the needs of individuals within the community are being met.

As a Partner Agency, the PVLA is tasked with providing a service that makes positive, meaningful change within the community. The United Way wants people to live their best lives, but they can’t achieve that goal on their own. They need to work with others who share their vision of a strong community, and that’s why they create partnerships with other agencies.

What Benefits Do Partner Agencies Get?

Helping the United Way comes with many benefits, including access to funding opportunities, resources for promotion and outreach, and opportunities for learning.

The United Way supports its Partner Agencies to ensure they are providing the best services possible. After all, if the Partner Agency is successful, the United Way is successful, and the community gets the services it needs to thrive and survive. It’s a win-win for everyone.

Probably the biggest benefit that comes with being a United Way Partner Agency is the sense of satisfaction that comes with knowing we’re making a difference. It feels really good to know that we are helping those in need and making Columbus an incredible place to live.

A Prosperous Relationship

There’s a reason why the PVLA has been a United Way Partner Agency for as long as it has; it gives us the opportunity to make a huge difference in the Columbus community. We also have access to and make connections with other nonprofits in the area, and it feels good to be part of a productive and prosperous movement.

The United Way has been doing good things in communities around the world for more than 135 years. They are catalysts of social change and exist to promote the common good.

Being a United Way Partner Agency is a big deal because it can make a huge impact on countless lives. Who wouldn’t want to be part of that?

New Grant from Tyson Foods Expands PVLA Class Offerings

The PVLA is super thrilled to announce that we have received a $4,000 grant from Tyson Foods, which will be used to offer an Introductory ESL class to students.

What Are Introductory ESL Classes?

Introductory ESL classes give adult students the foundation they need to learn the English language. Once they have the basics, they can then move onto higher level English classes, citizenship classes, or GED classes to obtain the skills and knowledge they need to accomplish their goals.

The 1-hour weekly class is designed to provide basic information such as teaching students the alphabet, numbers, colors, and how to introduce themselves, among others. The classes are centered around 12 lessons, which are taught on a continuous loop throughout the year.

The class is free, and students can join at any time.

The basic ESL class is geared toward individuals who have no or low English skills, but anyone is welcome to join to improve their English-speaking abilities. Classes are held on Thursdays from 12:00 to 1:00 pm at the Family Resource Center (3020 18th St, Suite 4, Columbus, NE).

Why Are Introductory Classes Necessary?

You may be wondering why the PVLA would need to offer an Introductory ESL class, especially when we have other English classes and partner with CCC to offer even more English classes.

One of the reasons why this class is necessary is because of CCC shifting to semester enrollment. We already did a blog post that talked about the benefits of this schedule change, but to remind you of some of the highlights, they include:

• Ensuring that lessons are taught in a logical, sequential manner so that students learn more
• Less stress on the instructor because they have a better idea of whom to expect in class from week to week
• Enrolling students for a semester can improve class attendance, which is essential when it comes to learning a new language

There are a few downsides to semester enrollment as well, including that students who walk through our door after the enrollment period have to wait to get into a CCC ESL class.

But that’s where the PVLA comes in, particularly with the Introductory ESL class.

Individuals can still come to the PVLA and start their journey to learn the English language. They also get exposed to what is expected of them in the classroom. This can be incredibly helpful if it’s been a while since they’ve been in a school setting or need to know how the language learning will impact their work and life schedule.

Learning the English language may be necessary, but it can also be intimidating. When signing up for CCC classes, a student has to commit a lot of time and effort—and while that commitment pays out in the long run, it can be challenging.

If an individual starts with an Introductory ESL class, it can increase confidence and ease fears, ensuring success now and into the future.

Building a Strong Foundation

Having a strong foundation is necessary when it comes to building practically anything. When it comes to language skills, knowing the basics is essential to move on to bigger and better things. By offering an Introductory ESL class, we are empowering our students to obtain the basics they need to build upon—whatever that might look like.

Whether a student decides they want to attend higher level ESL classes, obtain their citizenship, learn how to converse in English, or obtain their GED, they have to start somewhere, and the Introductory ESL class gives them that starting point.

This class wouldn’t be possible without the support of Tyson Foods, and the PVLA is honored and excited to partner with them to provide a new class for our students.

New Hires for a New Year

With the New Year right around the corner, the PVLA will be looking to fill some instructor positions. If you’re interested in helping others and being part of a unique (and super fun!) community, please consider sending in your resume.

Please keep in mind that the positions at the PVLA are contract, which means we only offer limited hours each week and you are responsible for withholding your own taxes (you can also speak with an accountant to determine the best way to handle this issue). The pay is $18/hour.

The jobs we’ll have available in 2024 include the following:

Conversational Spanish Instructor 

You must be bilingual to teach Conversational Spanish classes at the PVLA.

A high school diploma or equivalent is required, while any level of college education is preferred.

The winter Conversational Spanish classes will be held on Tuesdays from 6:00 to 8:00 pm. Classes start on January 9 and end on March 26, 2024 (12 weeks). Curriculum/class materials are available at the PVLA, so you won’t need to develop classes from scratch.

For Conversational Spanish classes to take place, a minimum of 10 students must sign up.

Integration Class Instructor 

For this class, we are looking for someone who understands American culture and the Columbus community and can share that knowledge with newcomers to the area. There is also a basic ESL component to this class, so being able to instruct individuals with low or no English skills is helpful.

You do not have to be bilingual to teach this class.

A high school diploma or equivalent is required, while any level of college education is preferred.

We are looking to hire someone to teach the evening Integration Class on Wednesdays from 6:00 to 7:00 pm. Classes start on January 10, 2024.

This class is 1 hour long and offered continuously throughout the year. The classes are centered around 12 lessons, which are taught on a continuous loop, with focused lessons or presentations from community members inserted as needed. Students can join at any time.

Curriculum/class materials are available at the PVLA, so you won’t need to develop classes from scratch.

Citizenship Instructor 

Duties for this class include teaching from 9:00 to 11:00 am on Tuesdays with instruction based on USCIS requirements for passing the citizenship test.

A high school diploma or equivalent is required, while any level of college education is preferred. You do not have to be bilingual to teach this class.

Citizenship classes are taught year-round, and you should be prepared to have new students join the class at any time, which means each lesson should be independent of itself. The lessons should be taught in a cyclical fashion, so students can join whenever and understand what’s going on, but it’s also important to continue to review material as long as students stay in the class.

Don’t worry! The USCIS has 16 beginner topical lessons, so it works pretty well to use these as the base of the cycle. You can then branch out and get more in-depth with specific topics based on your students’ wants and needs.

The only ESL reading and writing instruction that needs to be taught is within the scope of the test.

As a citizenship teacher, you’ll need to keep record of student start dates, application dates, interview dates, test retake dates, and outcomes as much as possible.

Outreach ESL Instructor

Outreach ESL classes are taught on location at businesses around Columbus. For the session we are currently hiring for, classes will be on Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 6:30 to 8:30 pm for 12 weeks.

You must be able to speak both English and Spanish to teach this session.

A high school diploma or equivalent is required, while any level of college education is preferred.

Curriculum has been developed for this class, and training will be provided.

  

Send in Your Resume

If any of these opportunities sound intriguing, please email your resume to Jessica at pvlacolumbusne @ yahoo.com or go to Indeed and apply there (links are included in the job titles).

Please note that while having experience as an instructor is beneficial, it’s not necessary. We can train you on that aspect. What we’re really looking for here at the PVLA are people who are passionate about helping others. If you have a drive and desire to help adult students become successful in life, then teaching for the PVLA may be just what you need to do.

Staying Sane Through the Holidays

Photo by Gift Habeshaw on Unsplash

The end of the year is upon us, and with that comes a lot. From holidays to school closures to cold weather, it seems like everywhere we turn, we’re getting hit with something new. While this can be an incredibly magical and wonderful time of year, it can also be filled with stress. If you’re looking for some ways to stay sane through the holidays, we’ve got some things for you to try.

1. Limit Your Schedule

There’s a lot of stuff going on right now. If you have kids, they are more than likely putting on holiday shows at school or preparing for class parties. There are also work functions and friend/family gatherings to go to. All of these are occurring in addition to the normal schedule of life.

If you want to make it through this time of year with your sanity and energy intact, then you should consider limiting your schedule. Invest your time and energy in the events that are most important to you. If that means seeing your kid on stage, make sure you are there. If you want to spend time with friends and family, put it on your schedule.

You don’t have to go to everything that’s offered to you. If there are events that you feel obligated to go to, limit how much time you spend there. Keep the visit to an hour or two so that you’re not spreading yourself too thin.

2. Stay Within Your Budget

This is the season of giving, and you want to make sure your loved ones know how much you care—and buying a present is the best way to accomplish that goal. However, it doesn’t take long for the spending to get out of hand. Then, you find yourself stressed because you don’t have the money you need for every day expenses.

There are other ways to “give gifts” this time of year that can be done for cheap. People appreciate homemade gifts. Consider baking them some delicious treats. You can even have the kids help. There’s nothing better than spending a weekend decorating cookies to pass out to friends and family—or to give to your neighbors, teachers, or mail carrier. They get a scrumptious treat, and you get to spend time with your children.

What other crafty skills do you have? Put them to use and create unique, heart-felt gifts that won’t break the bank.

Photo by Annie Spratt on Unsplash

 3. Take Some Time for You

Taking care of everyone else during this time of year is going to drain you. Sure, it’s fun being around family and friends, but it can quickly become overwhelming. To maintain your sanity, make sure you take some time for yourself.

It doesn’t have to be much. Even 10 minutes a day doing something you enjoy (or sitting in silence) can have a positive impact on your mental health. If you want to take more time to refresh and recharge, have at it!

You can’t be jolly if you’re rundown and exhausted, so remember to do something that makes you feel good. Not only will you thank yourself, but those around you will thank you as well.

An Amazing Time of Year

The end of the year can be busy, but it’s also amazing. To enjoy the holidays to the utmost, you need to keep your sanity intact. Share your time and joy with others, but also slow down and appreciate what’s around you.

The Season of Thanks

It’s that time of year when people count their blessings. They take a look at their life and give thanks for the events and people who have had a big impact.

Here that the PVLA, we have so much to be thankful for. From a new director to being able to participate in Taste of Columbus, 2023 had a lot going on. Through it all, we still did what we had to to ensure that students were being taken care of and being empowered to reach their educational goals.

 

Individuals Who Make it Happen

One of the biggest things we are thankful here at the PVLA are the donors who either give their time or resources to help students. From Snack Sponsors to volunteer tutors to volunteer instructors, individuals giving what they can makes a huge impact on the lives of students.

It may not seem like a lot for students to have a cup of coffee or grab a small treat, but it means the world to them. They are working hard to improve their lives (and the lives of their families), so being able to take a break and refuel is essential.

Having instructors and tutors who freely give their time to make sure students understand a particular topic or have information to learn a new one is life-changing—literally. The topics they are learning in a class or one-on-one lessons could be exactly what they need to pass a test or apply for a better job. Without individuals willing to help out, students wouldn’t be filled with the knowledge they need to improve their lives.

 

Partnerships with the Community

Individuals play a huge role in supporting students, but we couldn’t do much without the community. Our partnership with CCC Adult Education provides the technology and classroom space, as well as the instructors and materials, that keep our students learning with the most up-to-date information.

The United Way allocates the vast majority of funding that ensures we can pay our high-quality instructors and obtain materials and technology for the classrooms.

Our newest partnership with Columbus Public Schools to offer Family Learning allows us to reach a whole new set of students and provide them with language skills that will help them and their families be successful in life.

The Family Learning classes, as well as our Integration Class, has also opened up partnerships with community members to speak directly to students about the services they have to offer. There are so many amazing individuals who have volunteered their time to talk about their jobs and their passions to ensure that our students know more about the Columbus community.

There are also the partnerships with manufacturers here in town. These companies go out of their way to schedule Outreach Classes to ensure their employees have the skills that can help them be successful at work and beyond. Whether they are learning English or conversational Spanish, these businesses are breaking down barriers and making all of their employees feel valued inside the company walls and in the larger community.

 

More to Come

This year has been incredibly busy with the development of new classes and partnerships and maintaining classes that have been in existence for a long time. The PVLA has been around since the 1980s, and we continue to thrive and survive because of the support of individuals and members of the community.

We are so thankful for our donors, whether they give of their time or money. This year may be drawing to a close, but that doesn’t mean we’re done. There are still so many ways for you to support the PVLA and its mission, and there’s a whole new year to get involved and see what we have planned for our students.

Thank You!

Who Are You Giving to?

What is Giving Tuesday?

Giving Tuesday is a worldwide phenomenon that encourages individuals to donate to their favorite causes. It started in 2012 in response to the commercialism of Black Friday and Cyber Monday and encourages people to do something good. In the past decade, Giving Tuesday has developed into a global movement that has inspired and encouraged hundreds of millions of people to donate and celebrate generosity.

When is Giving Tuesday?

November 28th, 2023

Why Should You Donate to Platte Valley Literacy?

Columbus, Nebraska, is special. Within the state of Nebraska, Columbus is the most highly industrial city per capita—which means that there are lot of jobs and a lot of opportunities. People come here to work hard and grab their slice of the American dream. From the Congo to Mexico to Cuba and everywhere in between, our community is incredibly diverse. Everyone here is looking for the best life they can find for themselves and their families, and there are many different ways to achieve those goals.

But there are also challenges that stand in people’s way.

Here at Platte Valley Literacy, our mission is to break down those barriers.

Whether a person is looking to improve their English-speaking skills, earn their citizenship, or increase their employability skills, we are here to help.

But we can’t do it alone.

The vast majority of our classes are offered at no charge to students, but we still have to pay instructors and ensure they have classrooms to teach in. Technology also assists in student instruction, and we need to be able to keep equipment and other educational materials up to date.

As a nonprofit organization, we rely on the generosity of others to provide the invaluable services that people need.

We empower individuals to reach their educational goals, and your donation on Giving Tuesday ensures that we have what we need to provide students with high-quality instructors and up-to-date materials and technology.

Here are a few ways to participate in Giving Tuesday:

1. Make a donation

To make it as easy as possible, we offer a variety of ways to make a donation to the PVLA. You can head over to our online donation site or send a check or money order to:

Platte Valley Literacy
3020 18th St, Box 3, Suite 4
Columbus, NE 68601

2. Spread the Word

Tell your friends, family, and coworkers about our services. Chances are, you know someone who could benefit from what we have to offer. The more you share, the more individuals we can help.

3. Become a Volunteer

Giving Tuesday isn’t just about sending your favorite organization money, it’s also about volunteering your time to causes you truly care about. If you want to help adult learners succeed, then contact the PVLA to see how you can volunteer.

The PVLA has been a part of the Columbus community since the 1980s, and it makes us so proud to know that we have helped—and will continue to help—individuals fulfill their goals and dreams for a better life. By working together, we can make Columbus a welcoming place for all and ensure that everyone feels like a valued member of the community.

 

Stories from Students Who Have Benefitted from PVLA Services

For many, being able to live in the U.S. is the ultimate dream. There are a variety of things that make this country appealing, including the freedom and the employment and educational opportunities. As an immigrant, the benefits that come with obtaining a U.S. citizenship include the ability to vote, bring family members to the U.S., travel with a U.S. passport (and get help from the U.S. government while abroad), protection from deportation, and being eligible for federal jobs, among others.

A recent citizenship student from Afghanistan was thrilled to be in our evening citizenship class and unashamedly spoke of his gratefulness. He had no formal education past elementary school but learned English on his own after coming to the United States to live. He explained that because he had left Afghanistan to come to the United States, he could never go back, or he would be killed. This student was overjoyed after earning his U.S. citizenship and plans to work tirelessly to petition for his family so that they too can enjoy the freedom and safety of the United States.

To become a citizen, there is a process that must be followed, which involves being able to pass a test. Many immigrants do not possess the knowledge needed to pass the exam, but the information can be learned—and that’s where the Platte Valley Literacy Association comes into play.

Javier is from Guanajuato, Mexico, and he came to the U.S. with his father to work when he was 14 years old. Six months later, his father returned to Mexico, leaving Javier behind. Speaking no English and working to survive, Javier did not have the chance to finish school. He struggled but worked hard to get to where he is now. His story is very touching because he never took life for granted. Fast forward many years later... he now has a beautiful family, which consists of his wife and two kids.

Javier started with ESL (English as a Second Language) and transitioned to GED. It took him 3 years to complete his GED (it could have been less, but COVID impacted a lot). When he started GED classes, he was having a tough time learning with others, as every student had different subjects to focus on. He decided to work directly with a tutor. Janet, his tutor, focused on one subject at a time until he passed all subjects.

His two goals when starting the program were to become a leader at his job and obtain his GED. He has met both goals. Javier is a robot programmer at Columbus Hydraulics and earned a certificate. He has been working there for 8 years and is involved in big projects. He plans to focus on his projects and programming. Always striving to be better, his message to others is: “If I worked 10.5 hours every day, had parent commitments, and I still found time for education, you all can do it too!” He always went by a quote when challenges presented themselves: “Let’s try it.” Whether he failed or stumbled, he learned something and got better.