Aspire News: February 2025

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A New Season of Growth: Spring Classes Begin at Aspire
 
As the new semester unfolds, Aspire welcomes adult learners back for the spring semester of English as a Second Language and online GED classes. With each new session, Aspire continues its mission of equipping adults with the language skills they need to thrive in their daily lives, workplaces, and communities.
 
Learners have access to resources throughout the semester, including an excellent curriculum, experienced and passionate volunteer teachers, and a dedicated staff to ensure their success. Whether returning to build on their progress or stepping into the classroom for the first time, learners are met with a welcoming environment designed to foster confidence and connection.
 
Readers 2 Leaders in West Dallas:
At Readers 2 Leaders, classrooms are filled with the energy of learners eager to improve their English skills. The sense of community is strong, with students supporting each other on their journeys toward greater language proficiency.
 
The Storehouse Community Center in Plano:
Up north at The Storehouse Community Center, the semester is off to a smooth start. Students are settling into a structured learning experience tailored to their individual goals. The welcoming space provides an ideal setting for focused study and collaboration.
 
Jubilee Park and Community Center in South Dallas:
Jubilee Park is once again a hub of learning and opportunity in South Dallas. The first days of class are marked by enthusiasm as students begin their lessons, setting the stage for months of growth and achievement.
 
Aspire’s programs will continue throughout the year, offering instruction at multiple levels to meet learners’ diverse needs. With each lesson, students gain the skills and confidence to navigate their daily lives more effectively—whether applying for jobs, supporting their children’s education, or engaging more fully in their communities.
 
As the semester continues, Aspire remains committed to breaking barriers and expanding opportunities for adult learners across Dallas and Collin County.

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A New Chapter for Community Learning: Aspire Partners with Buckner Family Hope Center at Bachman Lake 
 
Aspire is thrilled to announce an exciting new partnership with Buckner Family Hope Center at Bachman Lake! This collaboration brings expanded opportunities for learners in the community by providing an additional, convenient location for classes.
 
Our first week of classes at the new location was a resounding success, with learners already taking meaningful steps toward their goals. The energy and dedication of the students and instructors are a testament to the impact this partnership will have on the community.
 
This collaboration exemplifies Aspire's commitment to breaking barriers to education and supporting learners as they build brighter futures. By teaming up with Buckner Family Hope Center at Bachman Lake, we are creating more accessible pathways for learning and personal growth, helping learners overcome obstacles and achieve their aspirations.
 
We are excited to witness the long-term impact of this partnership on the lives of our learners and the community as a whole. 

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We are officially 50 days away from the Toast to Literacy!
 
For over a decade, the Toast to Literacy event has been a cornerstone of Aspire's mission, fueling our literacy programs and changing thousands of lives across North Texas. As we count down to this year's event on April 10, now is the perfect time to join us in making a lasting impact!
 
Every ticket purchased helps fund Aspire's literacy programs, which empower learners to achieve their goals and create brighter futures for themselves and their families. Don't wait—secure your ticket today at toasttoliteracy.org!
You can make an even bigger impact by becoming a sponsor! 🤝
 
Sponsorships are a powerful way to amplify your support. They help Aspire provide best-practice solutions for learners and create meaningful outcomes that reflect their unique priorities.
 
If you cannot attend, you can still make a significant impact by underwriting the event or making a donation. Every contribution brings us one step closer to breaking the cycle of low literacy and creating generational change in our community.
 
Don't miss the chance to be part of an inspiring evening that supports a brighter future for North Texas. For tickets, sponsorship details, or donation opportunities, visit toasttoliteracy.org.
 
Questions about sponsorship? Contact our Interim President and CEO, Paul DiBiase, at pauldibiase@aspiretolearn.org.
 
Thank you for joining us in this transformative effort—together, we're rewriting the future for our neighbors in need!

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Anne Spellmann Lesikar: A Life of Service, Wisdom, and Compassion
 
Anne Spellmann Lesikar, a beloved Aspire volunteer, passed away last month after a life filled with wisdom, strength, generosity, and faith—qualities that made her an exceptional GED science volunteer and a cherished community member.
 
Anne's journey with Aspire exemplified her deep commitment to education and community service. As a pharmacist who practiced for over 40 years after graduating with the highest honors from UT Austin, Anne brought both her scientific expertise and compassionate heart to our GED program. Her students remember her for her knowledge and her unwavering belief in their ability to achieve their goals. 
 
What made her truly special was how much she genuinely cared about each person's success. She saw possibilities in her students that they sometimes could not see in themselves.
 
Anne was a lifelong Texan and proud Longhorn. She attended her first UT football game as a child and her last one with lifelong friends just days before her passing. Beyond her professional and volunteer work, Anne was deeply devoted to her family. 
 
At Aspire, we see Anne's legacy in our students' continued success. Her approach to teaching—combining expertise with compassion and genuine care—exemplifies our mission to help students overcome obstacles and exceed their expectations. We are grateful for the years Anne dedicated to our organization and the countless lives she touched.
 
Gifts in Anne's memory can be made to a charity of your choice in her honor, or please consider Aspire (formerly LIFT and the Aberg Center for Literacy) P.O. Box 570159, Dallas, TX 75357 or https://www.aspiretolearn.org/donate.
 
Anne Lesikar's life reminds us of the profound impact one person can have when they share their gifts with others. At Aspire, we strive to honor her memory by continuing to foster the same spirit of dedication, hope, and compassion that she brought to our community every day.
 
You can read more about Anne's story here.

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PO Box 570159
Dallas, TX 75357, United States
Formerly known as LIFT and Aberg Center for Literacy
Copyright © 2024 Aspire • Aspire is a 501(c)(3). Our registration number is 75-1095223