Anne Arundel County Literacy Council

Career Dream Come True: An Update From Our Student Rob

Dear Program Team, my name is Loamir Roberio, I’m from Brazil and I’m of your students since September 2023.

When I joined the “I Can Read” [Literacy Council] Program, I was not only trying to improve my English. I was trying to build a future in a new country. As an immigrant, speaking clearly and confidently was very difficult for me, and many times I felt frustrated.

Because of the patience, encouragement, and support from my tutor, JoAnne Dement, and the entire I Can Read team, my confidence slowly grew. Reading books in English stopped feeling impossible and became part of my daily life. Reading also helped shape who I am today. I learned how to share my thoughts, my ideas, and my passions in English.

Recently, I achieved a dream I once thought was impossible. I was hired as a flight attendant for the best and most competitive airlines in the United States. During my interview, I was able to speak clearly about myself, my journey, and my passions. Something very special also happened.

When I was asked about my hobbies, I talked about reading and being part of book clubs with my tutor. I mentioned a book I had recently read, and the recruiter had read the same book. We connected right away and shared our thoughts about it. In that moment, I saw how powerful reading is and how it helps people connect. I could feel the recruiter becoming more interested and engaged.

I was no longer afraid to speak. I felt confident, prepared, proud, and very grateful. I know that without starting my tutoring classes, I would not be who I am today, and I would not have achieved this job.

This program did not only teach me how to read, listen, speak, and write better. It changed my life and the way I see the world. The I Can Read Program gave me confidence, a voice, and the courage to dream bigger.

Thank you for changing lives through education, care, and reading. I will always be grateful for everything you all did for me.

With gratitude,

Rob

Students have achieved many impressive goals, big and small — all contributing to a better quality of life.

Some highlights:

• Four students earned high school diplomas. Four students passed at least one section of the GED.

• Six students got better jobs or promotions.

• Fourteen students improved an employability skill.

• Seven students pursued other forms of education or training.

• Twenty-one students improved their English communication skills.

• Six students increased their involvement in a child’s education.

• Nine students attained a consumer skill.

• One student passed the ASVAB exam to enter the US military.

• Two students got driver’s licenses.

The ripple effect of these accomplishments creates a cycle of opportunity that benefits students, families, communities, and our local economy.

The Literacy Council’s fiscal year began on June 1, 2025, and ends on May 31, 2026.