| | Remembering Dr. Linda Johnson
Our Community Mourns the Loss of a True Champion
Linda Johnson, CEO of the nonprofit Aspire, passed away on February 22, 2024, leaving behind a legacy that touched countless lives. As the news spread, the impact of Linda's passing was felt deeply by Aspire staff, students, supporters, and the broader nonprofit community.
Her loss was profound for those who worked closely with Linda at Aspire. She was not just a CEO but a mentor, a friend, and a guiding light. Her passion for the organization's mission to empower underserved communities was infectious, and her unwavering commitment inspired all who knew her.
But amidst the sadness, the staff at Aspire rallied together, drawing strength from each other as they navigated this difficult time. They found solace in shared memories of Linda, recalling her boundless energy, visionary ideas, and compassionate leadership. In honoring her legacy, they resolved to carry forward her vision with renewed determination and dedication.
Linda's absence will also be felt in the wider North Texas nonprofit community. She tirelessly advocated for collaboration and partnership, always willing to help or share her expertise with fellow organizations.
As the news of Linda's passing begins to subside, how does an organization cope with losing a leader and a friend?
For Aspire, the answer lies in unity and resilience. We will lean on each other for support, drawing strength from our shared commitment to the organization's mission. We will honor Linda's memory by doubling our efforts to serve our community of adult learners and families, knowing she would be proud of our continued work.
In the days and weeks ahead, Aspire will undoubtedly face challenges as we navigate a future without Linda. But her spirit lives on in the hearts of all who knew her, inspiring us to carry forward her legacy of compassion, determination, and unwavering belief in the power of community. Dr. Linda Johnson's impact will endure for generations to come.
- Paul J. DiBiase
Aspire Interim President and CEO
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Altrusa Volunteers Join Aspire to Support Local Students
In the heart of Dallas, the altruistic spirit of Altrusa International of Downtown Dallas, Inc. shines as they continue their mission to make a difference in the community. This dedicated group of volunteers is committed to aiding those in need, from vulnerable women and children to veterans seeking support.
Aligned with Altrusa International, Inc.'s overarching goals, this local chapter focuses on tackling pressing issues such as hunger, homelessness, and low-literacy while also providing vital assistance to hardship survivors.
Recently, these compassionate volunteers partnered with Aspire on a new initiative: assembling 80 backpacks filled with essential school supplies for our Early Childhood Education and Family Literacy Program. This collaborative effort saw volunteers pool resources and meticulously pack each bag with care and consideration.
The day was filled with smiles and determination as volunteers worked tirelessly to complete their tasks, knowing their efforts would have a tangible impact on those in their community. As the backpacks were distributed, they carried not only school supplies but also Altrusa International's unwavering spirit—embodying values of support, resilience, and a steadfast commitment to improving lives, one backpack at a time.
Through initiatives like this, Altrusa International of Downtown Dallas continues to exemplify the power of community-driven action. It leaves a lasting impression on those it serves and inspires others to join in its mission of compassion and support.
We are officially 35 days away from the Toast to Literacy!
As a valued supporter of our mission, we want to ensure you have ample time to mark your calendar and purchase your ticket.
The Toast to Literacy is an opportunity for us to unite as a community supporting Adult Literacy and Workforce Readiness. This event is one of the cornerstones of our fundraising efforts, directly impacting the lives of countless North Texas residents.
Your presence at the Toast to Literacy contributes directly to sustaining and expanding each of our programs, including:
- Our GED program, where we guide students to high school equivalency by preparing adult learners (18+) for the GED exam.
- Our ESL program, where we teach students the five core skills of the English language: Reading, Grammar, Writing, Listening, and Speaking.
- Our SEE program, where we help adults who read on a 1st-3rd grade level
- Our workforce training program, where we help our students earn their forklift and workplace safety certification so they can earn a living wage
- Our ECE program, where students can enroll their children 2 to 5 years old to learn the building blocks of English and develop important motor skills.
Please secure your ticket today by visiting toasttoliteracy.org. Your participation promises an unforgettable experience and serves as a powerful statement in support of changing the lives of our students and community.
Can’t make the event but still want to support the Toast to Literacy?
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| | By underwriting the event, you play a pivotal role in enabling us to contribute further to each of our programs and making a significant difference in the lives of our students.
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| Are you keeping up with us on socials?
Just in case you've missed it... Here's what's been happening on social media.
Social media is the best place to keep up with what we're up to during the month, so we encourage you to follow along on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, or even TikTok!
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| | Celebrating Another SEE Milestone!
The room buzzed with anticipation as students, guests, and volunteer instructors convened for the SEE Program Recognition Ceremony. This gathering marked a significant milestone for a group of dedicated individuals who had reached another level in the Sequential English Education (SEE) program. For these students, each stride forward stood as a testament to their resolute determination.
At Aspire, the SEE program, crafted by the Shelton School of Dallas, caters to adults grappling with visual or auditory processing disparities. It offers tailored instruction to address their distinct needs, employing the Sequential English Education method, which embraces a structural-linguistic approach to English language learning. Guided by committed volunteer instructors from Aspire, the small group classes prioritize patience and personalized teaching.
The ceremony commenced with a warm welcome from Ms. Jessica Martinez, the Adult Education Director, who praised the efforts of both students and instructors. She underscored the transformative journey undertaken by the students, emphasizing the importance of each educational milestone achieved.
As the spotlight shifted to the students, each one stepped forward to receive a certificate of completion. Some students start the SEE program with hesitation, unsure of what to expect. Now, they stood as living proof of the program's success. Their progress was evident not only in their academic achievements but also in their increased self-assurance.
As the ceremony neared its end, the students gathered for a group photo, confidently holding their certificates. While their journey is ongoing, this moment signified a significant step forward. Their efforts had not only honed their language abilities but also instilled a deep-seated confidence in their capabilities.
The SEE Students Recognition Ceremony went beyond recognizing mere completion; it celebrated resilience, growth, and the transformative power of education.
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