READ Center Executive Director Karen La Forge was named the winner of the Virginia Literacy Foundation’s 2018 Nancy Jiranek Award. The Virginia Literacy Foundation, which provides funding and technical support to private volunteer literacy organizations throughout the state, issues this award annually to individuals who exemplify the best in nonprofit manag
ement.
“It is an honor to be recognized by the Virginia Literacy Foundation with the Nancy Jiranek Award,” said La Forge. “It is a privilege to be part of The READ Center and support our students. They have great courage and commitment. It is rewarding to see them meet their goals and find success.”
The READ Center serves adults who read at 0-7 grade reading levels so they can improve their literacy skills including reading, writing, basic math, and digital skills. In metro Richmond about 1 in 10 adults lack basic literacy skills.
During her four years with the organization, The READ Center has increased the number of students served, added new programming like health and financial literacy, and doubled its revenue through grants, donations, sponsorships and special events. Also, The READ Center is seeking a new location for offices and classrooms to expand programs and services.
