Our Story
We are a 501 (c) 3 non-profit organization committed to improving English language and reading skills of adults and children throughout Southwest Florida. The Literacy Council Gulf Coast provides free instruction for adults in reading and writing, and in English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL).
We offer Moms and Tots Family Literacy for mothers and their young children and Kids + Lifelong Learning for parents in Title I schools. Additionally, we offer work-site literacy programs at local golf/gated communities. Our program serves residents of Bonita Springs, San Carlos Park, Estero, Fort Myers, Lehigh Acres, Cape Coral, Sanibel & Naples.
Our Mission
To assist adults and children to acquire the English literacy skills and education necessary to improve their quality of life and enhance the entire community.
What We Do
The Council trains volunteers to help students acquire English skills. One-on-one and group classes are offered, free of charge. We have more than 500 volunteer tutors, and are always looking for more!
Where We Are
26820 Old 41 Road, Bonita Springs, FL 34135
We serve the residents of the Bonita Springs, San Carlos Park, Estero, Fort Myers, Lehigh Acres, Cape Coral, Sanibel & Naples areas.
Where We’ve Been
LCGC was created in 2011 by a merger between Literacy Volunteers of Lee County and the Literacy Council of Bonita Springs. We’ve been helping students improve their literacy skills since 1989.
The Literacy Council Gulf Coast
Our Students
Adults who want to read and write better English, adults who want to learn English to improve their quality of life, and parents and their pre-school children eager to ensure that the children begin school ready to learn. About 2,696 students study English with us each year.
We teach students from 40 different countries. Students come from all countries in South and Central America, Haiti, France, Germany, Albania, Romania, Spain, Lithuania, Ukraine, Russia, Turkey, Slovakia, Greece, China, Vietnam, South Korea, Thailand, and others.
Our Leadership Team
Jeremy Fioravanti
Chairman
George Shaffer
Treasurer
Christa Short
Secretary
Sue Schad
President & CEO
Our Board Members
Joel Hyatt
Rob Cooper
Caitlyn Ford, CPA
Carlos Negron, Ed.D
Tripta Sarin
Eileen Tasso