On Tuesday, April 29, the Cape Fear Literacy Council (CFLC)celebrated 40 incredible years of changing lives through literacy at their annual Luncheon for Literacy. We were honored to be part of this celebration of hope, perseverance, and community impact.
CFLC’s work is crucial, right here in New Hanover County, over 75,000 adults lack the education skills needed to thrive. But through free programs like GED preparation, U.S. citizenship support, and reading, writing, and math instruction, CFLC is opening doors to brighter futures. In 2024 alone, CFLC served over 600 students, the most in its history!
We’re proud to support this work through grants from the New Hanover Community Endowment, including $69,100 in 2022 and $46,000 in 2023. These funds help CFLC expand their reach and empower more adults to achieve their goals and gain the confidence that leads to true self-agency.
The luncheon was filled with joyful moments and powerful stories. The Cape Fear Chordsmen delighted the audience with a heart felt musical tribute, including a rousing “Happy Birthday” to CFLC. Craig Snow of the Greater Wilmington Business Journal kept the room energized as emcee, and we heard powerful reflections from former Executive Director Linda Lytvinenko and current Executive Director Yasmin Shah Tomkinson.
Most moving were the voices of the students themselves. Maurice shared how he’s gaining the skills and confidence to pursue his GED. Marcy, an ESL student, proudly announced she’s now a U.S. citizen, something she achieved with CFLC’s support.
The celebration closed with a Reader’s Theater performance of Each One Teach One, a reminder that we all play a part in lifting one another up through education.
Here’s to 40 years of empowering lives and to the many more ahead. Thank you, CFLC, for your unwavering commitment to literacy and community transformation.
