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Hesther
Rippy |
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Hesther Rippy
80 - Lehi, UT
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Hesther Rippy's volunteer service has opened books and a new world for many in the city of Lehi. At the young age of 70, she responded to a church assignment (with her now deceased husband Bill's help) to improve literacy and established the Lehi Rippy Literacy Center where both school children and parents receive free literacy training. The center had its humble beginnings in 1998 in a one-room location generously provided by Lehi at Hesther's request. Today, the Center is housed in the city library building, and its tutors and students have access to books, educational software, and computers. With nearly 29 percent of Lehi City elementary students reading below grade level, the center is meeting a critical community need. Hesther's literacy program has grown to include instruction in reading, math, adult computer literacy skills, Spanish, American Sign Language, and English as a second language. Over 10,000 young students and adults have benefited from the center's services, while tutoring programs in reading and math reach over 700 students every year, Many of the students return to the center as tutors, a powerful testament to the impact of the center.
The adults and children who participate in literacy training develop new social skills, finding value and happiness in their work, educational experiences, and their personal lives. With Hesther's tireless efforts, the Lehi Rippy Literacy Center has helped local families break the cycle of generational illiteracy and helped students realize their academic potential.
That's why Hesther is a 2007
Woman Of Worth. |
