Shirley: “Even when we had very little money, we would send in 10 or 20 dollars to Laubach Literacy. I come from a long line of educators and literacy advocates, so I just so strongly believe in the power of literacy.”  George: “I came to the U.S. from Poland with my family at 17, and it was a struggle to learn English as a third language. But Shirley wouldn’t marry me until my English was perfect. Both of us have witnessed the impact of literacy, so it was no surprise that ProLiteracy was one of Shirley’s choices for her will.”

“My parents took me to get my first library card when I was barely 6 years old. It was such a big deal— Dad and I would spend Friday nights at the public library while Mom did the grocery shopping. Later, college was made possible because of a scholarship. Then after college I received a Fulbright grant to study in France. I’ve been given great opportunities in my life, so I feel I owe it to others to give back. With ProLiteracy, there’s a long history of success, so I can safely put my trust in them and I know that the people I want to help are getting the money. If everyone pitched in and gave a little bit, a lot more could be done.”