BEDFORD- As part of their efforts to bridge the gap in educational attainment and workforce development, Grow Lawrence County (a workforce and education arm of the Lawrence County Economic Growth Council) held a Success and Opportunity at Reading Plus Math, Financial and Digital Literacy (SOAR+) Open House on Wednesday, June 25 th at the StoneGate Arts & Education Center.
The original Success and Opportunity at Reading (SOAR) program was closed during the COVID pandemic. However, the need for adult literacy in Lawrence County did not diminish, and in 2024, a group of dedicated volunteers began meeting to address the continued need for local adult literacy services. The discovery that many people in Lawrence County also lack basic skills in Math, how to handle personal finances, and struggle with today’s advanced digital technology led to the development of a new SOAR program with additional focus areas. From those discussions and the invaluable insight from former SOAR program member Debbie Beeler, SOAR+ was developed.
Cathy Bullington, the GLC Adult Education Coordinator, had this to say, “The SOAR+ Open House provided community members an opportunity to view our educational materials, ask questions about our one-on-one confidential and personal tutoring program, or inquire about how they could become a volunteer tutor.” She continued, “It was exciting to see the community come out to support the relaunch. I want to give a huge thank you to our partners and dedicated committee members for giving our community this new pathway to a promising future.”
In addition to one-on-one tutoring, SOAR+ will also host smaller group events throughout the year. Everyone is invited to attend the upcoming FREE Tech and Sip on June 28th from 9-11 am in the Lobby at the StoneGate Arts & Education Center. Staff will be on hand to help teach anyone to perform simple tasks on their smartphones, tablets, or laptops.
For more information or to volunteer to become a tutor, call (812) 275-4493 or email Cathy Bullington at: cathy@lawrencecountygrowth.com
About the Lawrence County Economic Growth Council:
The Lawrence County Economic Growth Council is a non-profit, local economic development organization (LEDO) existing to support the growth of Lawrence County Businesses, including startup support, workforce solutions, and technical assistance, which promotes investment that improves the quality of life for our citizens. Learn more at www.lawrencecountygrowth.com.
About Grow Lawrence County:
Grow Lawrence County (under the direction of the Lawrence County Economic Growth Council) brings together business, education, and community leaders to develop and promote education-to-career pathways that prepare Lawrence County residents for successful careers and provide our workforce with the skilled labor it needs to prosper both today and in the future. Learn more at www.lawrencecountygrowth.com.
