“Read Moore Center” is the new name for the Southern Pines office of the Moore County Literacy Council. Students and volunteers submitted suggestions, two of which inspired the creation of the new name.

“‘Moore County Literacy Council’ is a mouthful,” says Patty Kempton, chair of the public relations committee of the MCLC Board of Directors. “Some people hear the name and think we are a literary society, rather than a nonprofit that provides free tutoring for adults who need to improve their reading and writing skills.”

The winning name was announced at the annual Student Recognition Celebration on Aug. 3, where more than 100 students, tutors and family members enjoyed a multi-cultural potluck supper and honored student progress and achievement.

This year, six students graduated from their program, and 27 students received certificates for advancing at least one literacy level within a year. Another 32 students were honored for making significant progress in reaching goals in their individual learning plans.

The event was held in the Emmanuel Episcopal Church Parish Hall.

“We are very proud of our students and their tutors,” says Pam Giambelluca, program director. “We are also glad that we now have a name which has the word ‘read’ in it, because that’s what we do. We teach adults how to read.”

Moore County Literacy Council, a United Way partner agency, is a community-based organization which relies on volunteer tutors to provide free educational opportunities to adults with low literacy skills. Prior teaching experience or knowledge of another language is not a requirement for volunteers, who are prepared through a 12-hour training session and supported by staff once matched with a student.

A tutor training session begins soon.

Orientation is Monday, Aug. 22, from 1 to 2 p.m., and training takes place from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday, Aug. 29, and Tuesday, Aug. 30.

All sessions will be at the Emmanuel Youth House, 385 E Indiana in Southern Pines.

Donations will be accepted to defray the cost of materials. Participants are asked to bring a lunch.

Register by the week prior to the session. Registrations may be made by calling (910) 692-5954 or emailing pammclc@nc.rr.com.