Program Profile of the Month: Oceanside READS Learning Center

Oceanside READS Learning Center is where adults can learn to read or improve their reading skills in a welcoming and encouraging environment.  Oceanside READS offers one-on-one tutoring, literacy books and materials, family literacy programs, and access to computers.

Literacy Coordinator, Chelsea Genack Eggli, shares a story about a learner who was paired with his first tutor in March 2019.  He is in his 60s.  At first he was discouraged, and feeling like his brain ‘didn’t work’. However, at a recent learner luncheon he exclaimed, “You know, I’m realizing that I can actually do this!”

Another learner who has been coming to the Oceanside READS since February 2019, was nervous and afraid to start with the program. He is now enjoying the program and achieving his goals.  Recently, with the help of his tutor, he met his goal of writing a letter to his favorite celebrity . 

What do you want people to know about your program?

Oceanside READS offers a Family Literacy Program where families learn together.  In the fall,  the programs will host a conversation-sharing two-day workshop. There is a parent learning time and a separate child learning time.  Later, the children and the parents work together to complete a learning activity.  In this particular workshop parents learned how to help facilitate conversation with their kids and boost literacy skills. Oceanside READS provides activities for all families.  These families get to know each other  and interact as a community.   

How can people get involved and support the program?

Chelsea is excited to work with and develop volunteers that want to lead programs, create lesson plans, assist  with kid time during family literacy events, and tutor learners.