Vocational EducationThe Elizabeth Kates Foundation supports the VCCW’s successful horticulture program, which offers inmates a Career and Technical Education (CTE) Certificate. CTEs enable students to seek technical employment in the horticulture, landscape and nursery fields. Many women have found that this program has led to very satisfying, hands-on careers. Students in the program work all year planning, planting and growing a variety of plants for Kates Day, a one day plant sale that is open to the public, and raises funds for the program. The event also showcases the students’ tremendous efforts and cultivation skills. One graduate of the program started her own landscape design business after her release. Also, in an effort to help women find jobs after incarceration, The Foundation supports a new program that enables women to complete the course requirements to earn a Commercial Driver’s License. Literacy – Kates Readers Book ClubKates Readers, initiated in 2007, provides positive and supportive learning experiences to improve literacy among inmates working on GED certifications. The Foundation provides the books, study guides, notebooks and volunteers who facilitate engaging discussions. Participation in the book club promotes and strengthens analytical, critical thinking and communication skills, all of which are tested on the GED exam. The book club typically meets monthly, and, after each meeting, the members always express their gratitude because they find the books, the topics, and the discussions very meaningful and enjoyable. Kates Readers improves individual as well as family literacy. Since most participants are mothers and grandmothers, they share their excitement about reading with their children and grandchildren in letters and during visits. One participant shared with volunteers that reading in the book club made it easier to talk to her son about his reading in school. Others send their favorite books home to share with their families. Although these women are in prison, improved literacy positively affects everyone close to them. “Book Club has really helped me with my reading skills.” —Inmate“Being in Kates Readers has helped me bring my grades up.” —Inmate |
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©The Elizabeth Kates Foundation. All rights reserved.The Elizabeth Kates Foundation, Inc is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. |