Press Releases

Qwest Awards NMCL $50,000 to Help Adults, Families

The New Mexico Coalition for Literacy (NMCL) was awarded a $50,000 grant from the Qwest Foundation to expand recruitment and literacy services to the many adults and families in New Mexico who have extremely low literacy skills. As the state gears up to attract industry and jobs, a literate and skilled workforce becomes an imperative. The dreams and futures of thousands of New Mexicans hang in the balance, as they seek jobs. Many are unable to compete because they simply haven't the literacy skills. The award was presented to Ernest Padilla, NMCL Treasurer, by Loretta Armenta, President of Qwest New Mexico, in the presence of First Lady, Barbara Richardson and Karen Gieri, Qwest New Mexico.

The New Mexico Coalition for Literacy provides training, funding, and technical assistance to local volunteer literacy programs throughout the state. During the past year, local literacy programs funded through the Coalition served over 3,600 adults with the assistance of 1,200 volunteer tutors. These numbers must grow, as fewer than 15% of the adults who are functionally illiterate are currently enrolled in these free programs to learn to read. Qwest Foundation's generous grant will make it possible for expanded outreach and training in New Mexico.

There is an ever-increasing need for volunteers to work one-to-one with adults needing individualized attention to improve their literacy and English language skills. Anyone wishing to volunteer their time can call the Coalition at 1-800-233-7587 or consult the Coalition's website at www.nmcl.org to locate a literacy program in their community.

The Qwest Foundation has generously provided funding to many non-profit Organizations that can demonstrate measurable results from their efforts in their communities. Qwest supports initiatives that build lasting value for Qwest customers and the communities served by Qwest.