Three new tutors have complete initial training at the Rowan County Literacy Council.

Liese Sadler, Carolyn Brown and Winnie Mikkelson are now certified to help students improve their reading and English language skills.

“I have always valued the ability to read, write and communicate with others,” said Brown. “Strong literacy skills are a passport to navigating the world. Furthermore, there is tremendous joy in being able to understand language and be understood by others. As a retired educator, I hope to be able to help others enjoy the freedom and pleasure of literacy.”

Brown recently retired from a career in education including teaching English at both the high school and college level. She is working with an English as a Second Language student interested in obtaining a GED.

Sadler is self-employed but finds time to tutor.

“Helping someone else out helps me grow as a person,” Sadler said. “And helping someone strengthen their literacy helps the whole community.”

Mikkelson is also motivated by a desire to help others succeed.

“Reading has always held a special place in my life and one which I have also shared with my children,” Mikkelson said. “Without reading, you may be able to navigate a path in life but with reading it becomes a richer, more rewarding experience.”

The Rowan County Literacy Council has been serving Rowan County since 1976 and is headquartered in the main branch of Rowan Public Library at 201 W. Fisher St.

The council is a United Way agency whose student programs are free to community residents.

For more information on enrolling as a student or becoming a tutor, visit the website at www.rcliteracy.org or call 704-216-8266.