James Poindexter • JBA Young Lawyers Section Treasurer
Young lawyers are hitting the links to benefit Learn to Read
Duval County’s students are back in school, and that’s a good reminder of the educational needs of our community’s adults.
Self-improvement through adult education is one of the many ways people can increase their standard of living, health and enjoyment of life.
While lawyers are required to undertake a certain amount of continuing education to satisfy the requirements of The Florida Bar, many people do not have the resources or information necessary to take advantage of adult education opportunities. One of the areas of greatest need in Jacksonville is adult literacy.
Roughly 20% of Floridians lack basic literacy skills such as the ability to read newspaper articles. Many are not able to adequately read the dosage instructions on prescription bottles.
As lawyers, we utilize our reading skills at work every day, but many people do not have the ability to apply for or retain a job that requires even basic reading proficiency.
While adult functional illiteracy is pervasive and its effects severe, resources to solve it are scarce.
Assisting adults with these skills can unlock economic potential, boost public health and increase the well-being of our community.
The Jacksonville Bar Association Young Lawyers Section’s annual “Tee it Up” charity golf tournament will benefit Learn to Read Jacksonville, a nonprofit dedicated to improving adult literacy in Duval County.
Since 1969, Learn to Read Jacksonville has served adults 16 years of age and older in Northeast Florida who do not know how to read or wish to improve their reading skills.
Relying almost entirely on volunteers and operating primarily on donations and grants, Learn to Read Jacksonville is a grassroots organization with accreditation from ProLiteracy.
Learn to Read Jacksonville is a worthy charity and we are proud to partner with the organization to provide it with financial resources in order to continue its mission.
The golf tournament is Oct. 10 at the Jacksonville Beach Golf Club. Lawyers and nonlawyers are invited to participate.
It’s an opportunity to play golf on a weekday at the newly renovated golf facility at Jacksonville Beach Golf Club and gives our members an opportunity to raise funds for and learn more about the adult literacy needs of our community. Feel free to bring clients or friends who are interested in playing golf for a good cause.
Even if you do not play golf, there are ways you can help. The Young Lawyers Section is looking for sponsors for each hole, the beverage cart, shirts for players and the post-tournament banquet.
If you are interested in learning more about foursome pricing or sponsorship packages, or would like to register, email [email protected].