Fall Fundraiser at Luigi’s Restaurant

The 2nd Annual Genesee County Literacy Coalition’s Fundraising Event

Come join us at Luigi’s Restaurant in Flint located at 2132 Davison Rd Flint, MI 48506. Hosted by the Genesee County Literacy Coalition (GCLC), this vital community engagement helps to ensure future adult and children learners continue to receive the services and technology they need to thrive.

The annual all you can eat pizza, salad bar, and beverages event will be held on Saturday October 22, 2022, from 12:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. The fundraiser will also include several raffles with opportunities to win a variety of gift baskets, as well as 50/50 raffle drawings. Tickets for the event are $20.00 per person and can be pre-purchased by contacting (810) 243-3349. Tickets will also be available on the day of the event at Luigi’s Restaurant.

GCLC was established in 1989 to provide volunteer training for non-profit organizations and individuals dedicated to improving literacy for adult learners and youth living in Flint and Genesee County. Since the Coalition’s beginning, it has evolved into a network of Adult Learning Centers providing a variety of literacy services and supports such Adult Basic Education, English as a Second Language (ESL), Workforce Readiness, GED Testing and Preparation, services for At Risk Youth, and services for K-12 youth. GCLC is a volunteer organization that is sustained by membership fees, fundraising, grants, and donations.

In honor of the late Danielle Brown (former GCLC Chair) a yearly Danielle Brown Scholarship recipient receives a scholarship of up to $1,000 towards their education upon completing High School or obtaining their GED. GCLC’s Adult Learning Centers Virtual Learning Project was launched in 2020 during the COVID-19 shut down to address the immediate need for technology. The Virtual Learning project provides adult learners with technology and tools to resolve learning barriers.

If you would like more information about GCLC and the Fall Fundraiser at Luigi’s Restaurant, or to schedule an interview with one of the Chairs, please call (810) 234-3349 or email GCLC at gclc.adultlearners@gmail.com. Stay updated with current and upcoming events by going to gclcliteracy.org or on Facebook.

# # #

GCLC Adult Learner Recognition: Mervat Esaak

Mervat Esaak is an AmeriCorps service member with the Flint Urban Safety & Health Corps serving as the Family Advocate at the Flint & Genesee Literacy Network (FGLN). Mervat, a Syrian immigrant, is one of 7 siblings who were displaced as refugees throughout the world. After experiencing 8 years of civil war in Syria, Mervat arrived in Flint in 2020 where she found a welcoming and kind attitude from Michiganders and Flintstones.

Mervat began her journey in her new country at GST Michigan Works! Talent Development Center (TDC), which set her on her path and empowered her to develop skills, both professionally and with the English language. Additionally, Mervat attended local Adult ESL courses at the Genesee Intermediate School District. Mervat has a Bachelor of Arts degree in English Literature from AlBaath University in Syria and spent 8 years in administrative and retail management.

As a mother to a young daughter here in Flint, Mervat is compassionate toward children's health and hopes to help Flint families with continued recovery from the Flint Water Crisis. As the daughter of a teacher and sister to two teachers, she gravitates toward educational initiatives. Serving as an AmeriCorps member allows Mervat to immerse herself into the Flint community to forge connections, build relationships, and gain experiences.

We are grateful to have Mervat as part of our team and proud of her for her growth and dedication to her self development and community!

GCLC Volunteer Recognition: Ella Gill

Ella Gill is a retired senior analyst from General Motors serving as an AmeriCorps RSVP (Retired and Senior Volunteer Program) service volunteer through the Valley Area Agency on Aging (VAAA). Ms. Gill has been serving with FGLN since 2018 as the Literacy Administrative Assistant.

Ms. Gill attended Northwood University and obtained a Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration and enjoys being involved with programs focused on children, such as summer camps sponsored by her church. Through these opportunities, she noticed that the children were lacking in their reading and math skills. To advance children's education, Ms. Gill got involved in afterschool mentoring, which made a substantial difference in the children’s academics. Ms. Gill wants to share the knowledge that she has learned from working with the Flint & Genesee Literacy Network and inform anyone that wants to further their education. Importantly, she wants to educate parents on engaging and showing an interest in their child's education.

Additionally, Ms. Gill serves on the Board of Directors for Compassionate Care Network, an organization that provides housing opportunities for veterans and those seeking assistance, is a member of the Genesee County Literacy Coalition, participates in VAAA events and partnerships (Heart-to-Heart, AARP), and has led the Little Libraries pilot initiative under FGLN.

GCLC would like to thank Ms. Ella for her service and the excellent energy that she brings to every meeting and event!