DCF’s Arsht-Cannon Fund Supports Literacy Programs Statewide
The Arsht-Cannon Fund at the Delaware Community Foundation (DCF) supports English language learning efforts and services that benefit Delaware’s immigrant communities. In honor of National Reading Month, the DCF celebrates the work of three grantees whose programs provide literacy training and support to newcomers. These programs are successful in providing non-native English speakers a greater sense of belonging and well-being in our community. Visit the Arsht-Cannon Fund website for more information about grantees and the populations they serve.
The Community English as a Second Language (ESL) Program at The Lutheran Church of Our Savior
This Sussex-based program recently celebrated its 20-year anniversary and expanded to four locations (and online) with 30-40 volunteer teachers. The Arsht-Cannon fund granted $25,000 to support salaries for the Program Director, Coordinator, and two Children’s Program staff. While many nationwide programs struggle with attendance because ESL students often lead difficult lives balancing work, family, and school, the Program at The Lutheran Church of Our Savior sees a regular attendance rate of 90%.
“Every week, I see firsthand how learning English transforms lives. Our students come to class with determination—not just to learn a language, but to open doors to new opportunities,” said Denise Jacono, Program Director. “Whether it’s securing a better job, helping their children with school, or simply feeling more confident in their daily interactions, their progress is inspiring. One student recently shared, ‘Now, I can talk to my boss without fear.’ Another told us, ‘I helped my daughter with her homework for the first time.’ These moments remind us that English isn’t just a skill—it’s a bridge to a better future.”
Serving students from 26 countries of origin, The Community ESL Program has successfully maintained its expanded reach across three geographic locations: Rehoboth, Beebe Hospital and Milford Public Library. With 80% of recruitment driven by word of mouth, graduates’ strong sense of personal achievement speaks for itself.
La Esperanza’s Place-based Resource Navigation and Family Coaching Program 2.0
The Arsht-Cannon Fund granted $32,000 for the salaries and travel expenses of two “Opciones” (Options) coaches and piloting three new ESL programs: ESL for Newcomers, ESL for Citizenship, and Spanish Literacy as part of their Pathways to Literacy Program. The 2.0 Program evolved out of La Esperanza’s Resource Navigation 1.0 model with “Opciones” coaches who have engaged over 400 students and parents in local libraries, churches, and in 55 schools.
“This program builds bridges between new community members and the community that already exists in Delaware,” said Paul Seyfert, Opciones and Education Program Manager. “One of our clients, a man in his sixties, is from Puerto Rico. His English isn’t bad, but he never finished high school. He started taking ESL classes and is now confident enough to start GED prep. He meets with one of our Opciones coaches regularly to talk about his progress and what he’s learned.”
Polytech Adult Education’s ESL/Family Literacy in Kent County
Polytech Adult Education’s comprehensive Family Literacy Programs provides ESL classes for adults alongside age-appropriate learning activities for their children. The program recently expanded to better meet the needs of their ESL community of 500 adult learners and offers 23 classes at six locations through Kent County. Those on the waiting list still receive free online resources to support English language acquisition.
“We wouldn’t be able to serve people without the support of the Arsht-Cannon Fund,” said Maryanne Grau, ABE/ESL Coordinator. “We have families who’ve utilized our program for years. Parents and their children learn separately and then, during the last twenty minutes of the night, do literacy work together. We have one adult student who recently got promoted. It’s not his dream job yet, but he’s on the right path.”
Funding from Arsht-Cannon primarily services the Milford Family Literacy Program wing, which serves more than 60 families with literacy services concentrated on reading instruction, homework help and tutoring. ESL literacy programs equip newcomers with the skills needed to thrive and lead fulfilling, healthy lives in Delaware.