Literacy Volunteers of the NRV 12th Annual Scrabble Tournament Fundraiser

News Release March 7, 2018 Scrabble tournament raises funds for local literacy program As any good Scrabble player knows, the smallest words can sometimes make all the difference. Struggling readers and people trying to learn another language can appreciate that sentiment all too well, as mastery of the English language in any form often begins with those same small, but very important, words. The New River Valley’s adult literacy organization will host a Scrabble tournament to support their programs to give adults the language and literacy skills they need for personal independence and family self-sufficiency. The Literacy Volunteers of the New River Valley (LVNRV) Scrabble Tournament will be held Thurs. April 12 at the New River Valley Mall from 5:30-8:30 pm. The evening will kick off with a selection of local food offerings, and play will commence at 6:15 pm. Roanoke Times columnist Dan Casey will be the Master of Ceremonies, and special guest and poet Nikki Giovanni will be join the friendly competition at the Scrabble table. There will be two rounds of play against two different teams and awards will be given for Top Scorer, Highest Word Score, Best Team Name, etc. The cost to play is $100 for team of 3 or $35 for an individual. LVNRV has a new executive director who is enthusiastic about current literacy programs and new initiatives. LVNRV, a United Way partner agency, provides free instruction for adults to help them achieve personal independence and family self-sufficiency. LVNRV offers a variety of instructional options – ranging from reading, writing, basic math, and basic computer skills to ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) and preparation for exams such as the GED, U.S. Citizenship test, and driver’s license – to help adults achieve their goals. Tutoring is provided by trained volunteers through one-to-one, small group, and class instruction at the Christiansburg learning center as well as public locations throughout the New River Valley. LVNRV also provides family literacy programming to help parents learn to read to their children. Approximately 160 adults will benefit from LVNRV’s adult and family literacy programs this year. It’s estimated that there are approximately 15,000 adults in the New River Valley without a high school diploma or GED. To register for the Scrabble Tournament or for more information about LVNRV’s programs and volunteer opportunities, go to www.lvnrv.org or call (540) 382-7262