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MLC Graduates (from 2003-present) who attended a reunion
in their honor gather on the steps to the Center |
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First Annual MLC Reunion
A Reflection Written by MLC Instructor Mary Beth Clayton
The evening of Tuesday, June 8, was a special night for MLC as 25 graduates gathered at their alma mater to mingle, become reacquainted, and enjoy a delicious Italian dinner. After Jane welcomed the grads back to their "school," she asked each woman to share a few words about themselves and what they are currently doing. Each told her story in eloquent ways, all giving great credit to the role that MLC played in their lives. There were varying degrees of tears, laughter, and hugs, as these past students described the difficulties and the successes that they continue to encounter. Through the stories, the graduates realized that they were all similar in that by receiving their GED or NEDP, they had achieved a level of success that they hadn't experienced before. Becoming high school graduates gave each of them a newfound confidence and pride. The lucky staff members who were present were treated to numerous accolades and appreciative compliments by their former students. The grads glowed when they spoke of the respect and the support they received from the moment they entered MLC. Jane reassured the women that Mercy's doors continue to be open to them, to assist as they continue their education, seek employment counseling, and have the need for social services. This evening became a tribute to everyone associated with the Center: students, volunteers, tutors, administrators, donors, board members, and staff. This first reunion was a complete success, and the goal will be to encourage everyone who has graduated to attend next year's event. |
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Tutor's Reflection
Shared by Maria Avren of Stratford
As a new tutor I am repeatedly amazed at what you offer to your students and, by planting seeds of literacy, to the community at large. You offer so much to so many and you do it in a way that protects and honors the dignity of your clients. Your facility is always clean and organized. Both of your daycare rooms are full of children who are constructively engaged, happy, and feeling secure. Your computer classroom rivals and exceeds many of the corporate training rooms I've been in. Despite being crowded, the environment is positive and productive without being sober and restrictive. Perhaps most importantly, you set goals, hold yourselves responsible for accomplishing them, and use real metrics to evaluate your results. Your knowledge of what your clients need is evidenced by all of the peripheral services, such as career counseling and social services referrals, that you offer students to help them achieve not only literacy but a place and a future in the world at large. All of this happens in a very busy place filled with people who often lack the opportunity and resources to create stability and security in their personal lives. Yet these same people come to Mercy and show what they can do with resources that are not luxurious but are well-chosen, and a dedicated group of staff, volunteers, and fellow students. Thank you also for proving that extreme variations in cultural and educational background are not an obstacle to success in an organization and, more likely, that the sensitivity and tolerance needed to be inclusive and open, tempered with structure and clearly expressed expectations, are exactly what is needed to create a successful organization. |
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