Partner Spotlight: Amy Mazer, Director of Operations at Literacy Buffalo Niagara

At Heart, Love & Soul, we believe in the power of partnerships to create lasting change in our community. One such partnership is with Literacy Buffalo Niagara (LBN), an organization dedicated to providing free literacy programs to adults in the Niagara region. We had the pleasure of speaking with Amy Mazer, the Director of Operations at LBN, about their impactful work and the long-standing collaboration between our organizations.

 

About Literacy Buffalo Niagara

Amy, who has been with Literacy Buffalo Niagara for 18 years, shared a glimpse into the heart of their work. “We focus on providing free literacy programs to adults in Erie and Niagara counties, especially through volunteer tutors,” Amy explained. The organization serves a diverse range of individuals, from those in the inner city to those in suburban and rural areas, with a special focus on immigrants, refugees, and people of color.

LBN’s mission is to meet people where they are, offering individualized programs tailored to each student’s needs. This could range from helping someone gain basic literacy skills to assisting those looking to further their education or enter new fields like healthcare.

 

A Partnership Built on Shared Vision

The collaboration between Literacy Buffalo Niagara and Heart, Love & Soul began in 2016, when our own Sister Beth, inspired by her vision for a Daybreak Program, reached out to local nonprofits to explore opportunities for community support. LBN, recognizing the importance of the work being done at Heart, Love & Soul, began offering office hours to integrate more directly with the community.

This collaboration is a wonderful example of two organizations joining forces to meet the needs of the community and support individuals in achieving their educational and personal goals.

 

The Process of Enrollment and Support

Amy described the thorough onboarding process at Literacy Buffalo Niagara, ensuring that students not only receive the literacy services they need but are also in the right program for their goals. Students seeking assistance first undergo an individual interview, followed by literacy assessments that determine whether they require help with speaking and listening skills, reading, or writing.

“Our focus is on people who are working below a sixth-grade reading level. If we’re unable to support them in our programs, we’ll refer them to partners like Orleans Niagara BOCES who offer GED services,” Amy explained. Students are then paired with volunteer tutors who have compatible schedules, ensuring the best learning environment possible.

 

Success Stories that Inspire

Literacy Buffalo Niagara has seen countless success stories over the years, with individuals overcoming significant barriers to change their lives. Amy shared a recent story of a Syrian immigrant who had struggled with her reading and writing skills but was determined to pursue a career in healthcare. After working closely with her tutor, she was able to gain the skills necessary to enter a home health aide training program. “She’s now on her way to a new career, and it’s been incredibly rewarding to see her progress,” said Amy.

These stories of resilience and transformation are what keep Literacy Buffalo Niagara motivated, as each individual’s journey requires patience and commitment. Amy emphasized that learning as an adult takes time, and success comes through long-term dedication, both from students and their tutors.

 

How You Can Get Involved

Literacy Buffalo Niagara is always in need of volunteers. Amy explained that you don’t need a teaching background to become a tutor, just a willingness to dedicate a few hours each week to help someone in need. Many of their tutors are retirees, who bring invaluable life experience and a genuine desire to give back.

However, like many organizations, LBN has seen a decline in volunteerism post-pandemic. “We currently have about 50 students on our waiting list, and we’re unable to serve them without additional volunteers,” Amy said. They encourage anyone with a high school diploma or equivalency to consider joining their tutoring program and making a difference in someone’s life.

 

Getting in Touch

If you’re interested in learning more or volunteering, Literacy Buffalo Niagara can be reached at their main office located in the Buffalo Central Library, or through their website at Literacy Buffalo Niagara. There, you can find all the necessary details about becoming a tutor or a student, as well as contact information for their team.