During my time at the YWCA as a North Carolina LiteracyCorps/AmeriCorps member, I have seen firsthand the impact that their family literacy program has on its participants. Volunteers and interns from colleges all over the Triad, including UNCG, Guilford and NC A&T, come weekly to mentor teen moms, help them with their homework and provide care for their children. Through this program called Teen Families Reading Together, the YWCA and its volunteers help moms stay in or reconnect with school and encourage them to get their GEDs or high school diplomas, or apply for college.

But more than just meeting these mothers’ educational needs, TFRT shows these moms that they are their children’s first and best teachers. It enhances their parenting skills and promotes playing with and reading to their children. Confidence is built as they see their children succeed, knowing that their interactions are helping shape their children’s futures.

TFRT teaches moms that they can advocate for their children and assist them in reaching their goals. And, as they see the positive impact they can have on their children’s lives, it inspires them to strive towards their own ambitions. Family literacy programs are essential in our community as they supply support to help young moms succeed in school and prepare their children for success as well.

Programs like the one provided by the YWCA offer encouragement and guidance that are essential for empowering these families.