As I looked at the calendar last week, I was shocked to fine that time had passed so quickly and our 08-09 service year was about to begin. It seems like only last week that we said goodbye to the 07-08 class with a delicious and fun Service Recognition luncheon. Now granted I have been a bit busy with hurricane evacuations and a new baby, but time really flies! I look forward to meeting our newest members and continue to work to improve not only the literacy level here in New Orleans but also the Literacy AmeriCorps program as a whole!

This year's orientation should be a success. We have a variety of trainings and guest speakers. Including a reading workshop with Hazel Parker, a budget workshop with Phoebe Brown of Consumer Credit Counseling Services, an introduction to the literacy field by Rachel Nicolosi, and the first 21st Century Skills module led by former members Isabelle Whitman and Jodie Harris. We will also have an alumni panel and small group discussions so that our newest members can learn from those who came before them. Overall, it looks to be a great three days!

Looking forward to another year of getting things done!

Sarah Fischer
Literacy AmeriCorps Program Coordinator