FOLEY – The South Baldwin Literacy Council (SBLC) celebrated the achievements and program completions of 89 learners from all four programs offered through the organization.

Each student was individually honored at the Student Success Celebration event for their progress in programs including Adult Basic Education, GED completion, English as a Second Language (ESL) and After-School Youth Tutoring.

Taylor Johns, executive director for SBLC, said the event provides a "heartfelt moment" to students, their families, SBLC volunteers and staff. Johns called the celebration the "most inspiring night of the year" even though "it's tough to top the joy" in the SBLC office when a student graduates a program throughout the year.

"Many students walk through our doors saying things like 'I'm not smart enough,' 'I can't do this' or 'I'll never accomplish that,'" Johns said. "This night proves otherwise. It shows them and all of us that they can do hard things and they're not alone in the journey. The South Baldwin Literacy Council is always here for them."

The night of celebration, Johns said, focused on the adult learners in a "more modest" event pre-COVID. The event was paused during the pandemic and restarted in 2022. Last year the celebration was expanded to include students in the youth programs and now everyone honors their achievements together.

Events like the Student Success Celebration are important to recognize students "for their resilience and commitment" to their education, Johns said, and the event "shines a light" on student achievement and determination.

"This event also gives our community a firsthand look at the real, lasting impact of our programs," she said. "It's a chance to see how education transforms lives and why our work matters."

Johns said this event also honors the volunteers and staff members for SBLC.

According to the SBLC website, it is a volunteer-based non-profit organization established in 1983. Services are provided to Baldwin County residents at a low-cost or free-of-charge. Johns said this is because of the "generosity of our donors" and the "dedication of our volunteers."

"If you believe in the power of education to change lives, we invite you to get involved," Johns said. "Whether you'd like to make a donation, tutor or support behind the scenes, there's a place for you here. Join us in empowering our community, one learner at a time."

For more information on the SBLC programs and volunteer opportunities, visit the website at www.southbaldwinliteracycouncil.com.