Q&A with Annmarie Westerfield of South Baltimore Learning Center

Article provided by the South Baltimore Network:

In this Q&A meet Annmarie Westerfield, executive director of South Baltimore Learning Center, which is located at 28 E. Ostend St. in Federal Hill.

Can you tell me about the work your organization does and the program or programs you run?

South Baltimore Learning Center (SBLC) works to improve the self-sufficiency of educationally disadvantaged adults. SBLC is a community-based nonprofit organization providing functional literacy and life skills training, in addition to career preparation services, to residents in the Baltimore Area.  SBLC is in its 25th year of operation – an incredible milestone for a nonprofit – and is now one of only a few remaining community based adult literacy organizations still in operation.  While SBLC’s main facility is located in South Baltimore – the effects of the Center’s programs are felt throughout the City in struggling neighborhoods where SBLC partners with other organizations to hold off-site classes. The Center is committed to helping create a skilled and educated workforce for area businesses. 

What differentiates you from other organizations? 

SBLC is fully vested in the lives of our learners, helping them to overcome obstacles that prevent them from achieving their goals. Not only are we providing the educational classes to promote academic knowledge, we work to give our learners the confidence they need to succeed where they have previously struggled. 

What do you think your constituents or beneficiaries would say is the best thing about your Organization? 

Quote from graduate, Tonya Pearson

“The doors of opportunity are never closed if you have the right key. SBLC was the key for me.”

What results does your organization achieve?

One of our goals is to help learners obtain their Maryland High School diploma. However, as they work toward that goal the educational gains they make along the way improve their lives, the lives of their families and the community as a whole.

Talk about current goals and initiatives (events, fundraising, etc.)

SBLC looks forward to holding its 25th Anniversary Gala at a new venue, The Horseshoe Baltimore on April 16, 2016. This cocktail style event will feature music, dancing and lots of interactive activities to make it a wonderfully fun event. Learners from our 25 years of service will be on hand to talk about their accomplishments.

I’m a Jersey girl who’s high school hang out was Holsten’s where they filmed the last episode of the Sopranos.

For more information visit our website: http://www.southbaltimorelearns.org

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