Hong’s Story of Modeling Lifelong Learning to Her Children

When volunteer coach McKenna began meeting with Hong virtually in June 2024, it quickly became clear that Hong’s love for learning, and her love for her family, go hand in hand. A mother of three, Hong often has her children nearby during their virtual coaching sessions. Their cheerful interruptions are always welcome, until her coach gently reminds them, “Okay, time for mom to study English!”

Hong’s commitment to learning extends beyond the sessions themselves. During her pronunciation homework, she often practices with her oldest daughter, a second grader who eagerly joins in. Together, they repeat English words, sounding them out and laughing along the way: a beautiful picture of family literacy unfolding in real time.

Hong completes her English lessons from home while balancing her busy schedule, thanks to an iPad donated by another volunteer literacy coach. Her dedication shows in her consistent participation and steady progress, and over time, the bond between Hong and her coach has grown. Recently, Hong reached out for help understanding and paying a medical bill, a challenge that can feel overwhelming in a new language. Together, they reviewed her insurance information, but before long, Hong proudly solved the issue on her own.

Hong’s journey is a reminder that learning English is a gift of confidence, connection, and community. Through her persistence and the support of her coach and the Literacy Center, Hong is improving her English and showing her children what lifelong learning looks like.

Support learners like Hong. Become a Volunteer Literacy Coach! Help transform a life through literacy, one word at a time! No teaching experience is needed. We provide all the training and support. If you can read and write in English and want to make a difference in your community, now is the perfect time to volunteer as a literacy coach.