Literacy Connections appoints executive director
The board of directors for The Literacy Connection welcomes David Zimmerman as its new executive director. He replaces Karen Oswald, former executive director who resigned this past February.
Zimmerman is a visionary leader who brings demonstrated experience in nonprofit organizations as well as community business collaboration, board governance and organizational change management to The Literacy Connection.
Zimmerman has served previously as the employment opportunities manager for the Center for Enriched Living and was the employment coordinator for New Foundation Center (now Thresholds). He also is also a veteran of the United States Navy. He holds a bachelor of science degree in public affairs management from Indiana University, as well as a master of arts in public administration nonprofit management from University of Colorado and a master of business administration (management) from Roosevelt University.
"I'm honored to have been given the opportunity to lead this organization," Zimmerman said. "The mission of The Literacy Connection is such a needed resource in the communities we serve as I have encountered several clients at my previous positions that had severe deficits in basic literacy fundamentals, in addition to other barriers in their own lives. Reading your schedule at work, filling out job applications, or just being able to write about what you enjoy doing in life; literacy in our communities is so essential toward the inclusion and prosperity for our readers.
Zimmerman continued, "Providing opportunities for those who need help is a great passion of mine and having a career that aligns with this is truly a blessing. The Literacy Connection is a public nonprofit organization and I plan on continuing to build new bridges with the communities and reaching out to new learners who may have been hesitant or unaware of our services."
Board President Jay Robinson stated, "We are confident that David's experience, knowledge, and integrity are a great match for the work, staff, and friends of The Literacy Connection. Together with the staff and the board of directors, we will continue to advance our mission by helping adults in the northwest suburbs reach their literacy goals through one-on-one volunteer tutoring and small group instruction.
The Literacy Connection serves 16 northwest suburban Chicago communities including Algonquin, Bartlett, Carpentersville, Cary, Elgin, South Elgin, East Dundee, West Dundee, Gilberts, Hanover Park, Hampshire, Hoffman Estates, Huntley, Lake in the Hills, Streamwood, and Schaumburg. The agency provides customized one-on-one and small group adult tutoring, citizenship conversation groups, English conversation groups, and family literacy programs.
The next volunteer tutor training workshop will be 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, July 28, at Gail Borden Public Library, 270 N. Grove Ave., Elgin.
To sign up, visit www.elginliteracy.org.