Literacy Lines
- Winter 2020 -
Greetings!

Around this time last year, while signing holiday cards with my LCNV colleagues, we were excitedly talking about plans we had for the coming year – plans of travel, becoming better connected to the people in our lives, strengthening connections with the community, and serving our learner population in Northern Virginia to the best of our ability. Then in March, when the pandemic struck and we needed to adjust to a new normal, I realized that while some of those plans had to be cancelled, many of them were in fact more important than ever. Our focus has been to cope with sudden changes and learn alongside our learners, teachers, and volunteers how best to adapt to new scenarios. 



Best,
Roopal Mehta Saran, Executive Director
LCNV Newsletter Now Named "Literacy Lines"
We thank everyone for their thoughtful submissions for the “Name LCNV Newsletter” Contest! After votes were tallied, Literacy Lines is now the official name for LCNV's newsletter. Congratulations to Ron W., who submitted this name and reminded us that it was the name of our printed newsletter in the past.
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LCNV celebrated our 58th Annual Recognition Ceremony - Our 1st Virtual Ceremony Ever!
On October 29, LCNV celebrated our 58th Annual Recognition Ceremony. Over 220 of you joined us virtually to cheer on our incredible award winners. It was our honor to recognize some of the excellent partners, volunteers and students who make it possible for LCNV to achieve our mission. Many thanks to Margery Leveen Sher for being our guest speaker this year, and congratulations to LCNV's 2020 Awardees!
U.S. Congressman Don Beyer Visited LCNV's Virtual Class
Long-time LCNV supporter and friend, US Congressman Don Beyer, and his Outreach Coordinator Julia Kravitz, visited one of our virtual classes on November 12. Volunteer instructors Karen and Stacey welcomed him to their Beginning English class where learners from many different countries were sharing tips for handling finances - including a discussion on credit scores and another on whether or not to give their teenage kids debit cards. The Congressman offered encouraging words to our dedicated learners for their commitment to their education and for their perseverance in these difficult times. Our learners were eager to greet him and took this special opportunity to thank him for his service to the community. Thank you, Congressman Beyer! 
Alexandria Cheers for Volunteers!
At the December 8th meeting of the Alexandria City Council, Mayor Justin Wilson and fellow council members expressed deep gratitude for all of the volunteers who have served this year in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic.
SNAPSHOT Resource Guide Updated
Each year, LCNV compiles this list of resources for use by our students and community members, including Housing Services, Childcare, Healthcare, Citizenship and Immigration Services, and more. This year, we had the privilege of receiving generous support from Anthem HealthKeepers Plus for this Special Covid-19 edition!
Interview with LCNV Instructor Sarah Babb
Sara Babb started working with LCNV in 2017, when she first moved to Northern Virginia and wanted to engage with the local community to support newcomers. After volunteering with LCNV for three months, Sara was given the mission to design a new curriculum for nonliterate adults of immigrant or refugee background. Read her story and learn about her journey teaching, curriculum designing, and creating an impact with LCNV.
Make Your End of Year Donation
There is so much to bring us hope this holiday season: our volunteers, our supportive LCNV community, but most of all, our learners whose courage, care and compassion for their classmates and communities is truly remarkable. But we still have work to do. Your contributions to LCNV help learners who are working harder than ever to overcome the setbacks of the pandemic. Since the impact of Covid-19, LCNV has given over $30,000 in scholarships and free classes. Submit your tax-deductible year-end donation to help us continue to serve those that need it the most! A gift from new donors or increased donations from existing donors will be matched up to $2,000, so give today and double your impact! Gifts of $500 or more are eligible to receive tax credits in Virginia equal to 65 percent of the donation under the Virginia Department of Education’s Neighborhood Assistance Program. Literacy is a survival skill!
Announcements

  • On January 7th and 14th, LCNV proudly offers Adult ESOL Instructor Basics. This 2-part training will equip you with the principles, strategies and tools you need to teach beginning-level English to adults of immigrant or refugee background. Register by December 23 to reserve your spot and receive training materials by mail prior to the training date.

  • In 2020, anyone who donates up to $300, whether they itemize or not, can claim it as a charitable deduction. In addition, for the entire year of 2020, the limitation on how much of your charitable donations you can deduct against your income has been lifted. Previously it was a maximum of 60% for cash donations and 50% for non-cash contributions. These limitations have been removed in the CARES Act for federal income tax purposes. Donate now.

  • Double your impact when you donate to LCNV today! Thanks to a generous donor, all increases from your last gift and first time donations will be matched up to $2,000. Visit www.lcnv.org/donate to give today!

  • You may qualify for a tax credit in Virginia. LCNV is an approved organization under the Virginia Department of Education's Neighborhood Assistance Program, meaning that businesses and individuals who donate cash or marketable securities to LCNV may receive tax credits in Virginia equal to 65 percent. Check out your eligibility!

2855 Annandale Road,
Falls Church, Virginia 22042
Tel: 703-237-0866 | Fax: 703-237-2863