ESL - English as a Second Language
The Zonta literacy project, in place since 2007, focuses on Hispanic women with small children. Committed to improving the lives of women for whom English is their second language, the team works with two partners: Lee County School District’s “Parent University” program through Head Start and Early Childhood Learning Services, and (a newer partner) the Gladiolus Learning & Development Center (GLAD) in Harlem Heights.
It is recognized that immigrants who learn English have better economic opportunities, take their citizenship tests successfully, and communicate more effectively with doctors, teachers and employers.
Zonta Foundation Grant: our grant to Parent U annually funds classroom learning materials, bilingual teaching assistance, and transportation costs (bus passes) for up to 25 low-income women with children enrolled in Head Start.
Zonta Club Service: members serve as volunteer tutors, contributing countless hours in the classroom and preparing lessons. A book drive is held annually at local bookstores. Zontians gathered to make teaching materials