These students understand that without English they are at a disadvantage, and are learning now, even though it is difficult. The Literacy Council of Bonita Springs is helping. DP
By Pedro Morales
TheNews-Press.com: In the 11 years Demetria Gonzalez has lived in America, she has managed to survive without speaking English.
She sees her chance to improve her life by learning English at the Literacy Council of Bonita Springs.
"It's my fault I haven't learned English," said Gonzalez, who immigrated from a remote part of Mexico where neither English nor Spanish is spoken.
"But I'm learning, little by little," she said.
In recent years, the council has ridden a wave of awareness in the Hispanic community that English is essential. The nonprofit has pressed on during a time when undocumented immigrants are the target of some government and community groups.
It is one of the fastest-growing social services in Bonita Springs. Its ripples have reached public schools, the job market, community gatherings.
Six years ago the council — which has offered free English classes since 1989 — had 150 students, 130 tutors and a $25,000 budget. In 2006, they've taught 1,379 students with 490 tutors. The budget is about $300,000.
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