Spotlight on Service Award
Sarah Poontong of South-East Asia Center (SEAC) was one of ten recipients honored with the “Spotlight on Service Award” presented by Secretary of State Jesse White during a special ceremony in Springfield recognizing students and tutors of literacy programs across the state.
“I am honored to congratulate these outstanding students for their hard work and determination to attain lifelong reading and learning skills,” said White who is also the Illinois State Librarian.
Award to Sarah at SEAC
“Many of them have had to overcome great difficulties and personal obstacles to reach this level of achievement.
I am also proud to recognize our outstanding volunteer tutors for their generosity and encouragement in helping literacy students achieve their utmost potential.” In 2017 over three thousand volunteer tutors were involved.
Ms. Poontong who is an English-as-a-Second-Language (ESL) tutor, could not attend the festivities, so her award was accepted by Seamus Doyle, ESL Coordinator for the South-East Asia Center.
“We are very lucky to have such dedicated and capable volunteers. Sarah sets a high standard that is an inspiration to our other teachers and tutors,” says Seamus.
The agency has been providing literacy assistance to immigrants on Chicago’s north side for over 30 years.
Learn how you can volunteer or sign-up for lessons.
The South-East Asia Center strives to “Build Bridges” of understanding between all cultures.