Alfalit Makes A
Difference
Even During A
Pandemic!
Check out our South Sudan COVID-19 Response video.
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EDUCATION
IS THE MOST POWERFUL WEAPON WHICH YOU CAN USE TO CHANGE THE WORLD
Nelson Mandela (1918 - 2013)
We know we need God’s help in serving our brothers and sisters who are often extremely poor and live in some of the most dangerous environments in the world.
We need volunteers to help with every aspect of our organization. When we work together, we can change lives in ways never imagined.
We do everything we can to minimize overhead costs so that we can maximize the programs we offer. When you make a donation to Alfalit, you are guaranteed that we will put your compassion to work effectively!
Difference
Check out our South Sudan COVID-19 Response video.
OUR PROGRAMS
Alfalit believes that Literacy is a fundamental right that changes lives. Since 1961, our grassroots-approach with in-country affiliate organizations has effectively reached those with the greatest needs. On average, 85% of all enrolled students graduate from Alfalit programs every year.
Equivalent to a 3rd grade education, upon completion students have a 1,471-word vocabulary. They can read, write and complete basic math computations. Completion time: about 9 months.
Available to students who successfully complete Literacy training, this advanced class provides the equivalent of a 6th grade education. Graduates are encouraged to continue their formal studies. In many countries, thanks to partnerships with Ministries of Education, Alfalit’s certification is recognized and enables appropriate student placements - and this bolsters the self-confidence of our students.
Our tiniest students learn basic skills like counting, colors and words. Students are better prepared to enter elementary schools and typically do better than their non-early educated counterparts.
Adult, non-English speakers gain the ability to use English with self-assurance in basic, everyday situations. In the United States, this helps our non-native residents become a part of the community in a quicker manner and contribute more to society as a whole.
Earning an income helps individuals, families and communities. This program provides skill-based training to adults who would otherwise be unemployable in the poor countries served by Alfalit.
OUR IMPACT
OUR IMPACT
STUDENT SUCCESS
Alfalit…In their own words
Janet Helbig, aged 33, is a graduate of the adult literacy and vocational skills programs offered by Alfalit Liberia. She is now an entrepreneur and we couldn’t be prouder. In her own words: “Alfalit program has done so much good for my life. I have 4 children and their father is not working."
Mrs. Vilma was unable to read or write. She now feels empowered to help her neighbors and wants to complete the third phase of the literacy program, equivalent to completing elementary school. She remains focused on advocating and seeking support for her disadvantaged community.
She started our course in January of 2016 and received her certificate in June of that same year. Rosena Peltreau now feels like a well-rounded young woman, full of energy and a hunger for learning. She is enjoying the fruit of her labor by sending her children to school thanks to Alfalit.
ALFALIT EARNS COVETED 4-STAR RATING FROM CHARITY NAVIGATOR
Our strong financial health and commitment to accountability and transparency have earned us a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator, America’s largest independent charity evaluator.
Alfalit International’s rating and other information about charitable giving are available free of charge on charitynavigator.org. More detailed information about Alfalit International’s rating is available to Charity Navigator site visitors who become registered users, another free service.
STOP THIS VICIOUS CYCLE
JUST $14 A MONTH CAN HELP PROVIDE BASIC LITERACY SKILLS.
GIVE FOR LITERACY TODAY
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ONLINE AUCTION
supported by Grandstand Sports & Memorabilia
Gradice Alexandre
Haitian-Creole Literacy - United States
Joined the Alfalit team: 2017
Born: Ouanaminthe North East, HaitiÂ
Education: Miami-Dade College, International Studies (in application); Bethany Global University in Minneapolis, MN, Masters – Missiology (in progress); Université Chrétienne du Nord d’Haïti (North Haiti Christian University), Bachelors – Theology; State University of Haiti (Psychology);
Gradice retired after 25 years as an elementary teacher in Haiti. Afterwards, she joined Société Biblique Haïtienne, an affiliate organization, as the Alfalit Program Director for 13 years. Gradice serves as the lead Pastor of Rock’s Horeb Baptist Church in Haiti where she also established a foundation for kids. Her new project is a Missionary Training Institute in Haiti. Gradice appreciates Alfalit’s mission because it is also hers – to find ways to eradicate poverty. She resides in Miami with her young son. To learn more about Alfalit programs offered in the U.S., please click here.
Juan Marcos Bello
Program Director
Joined the Alfalit team: 2001
Born: Dominican Republic
Education: Information Technology degree, Universidad A.P.E.C., Santo Domingo, D.R.
The father of 3 sons, Juan Marcos has over 26 years of work experience. Alfalit is a family affair as his mother, Milagros Bello, serves as the executive director of Alfalit’s affiliate in Dominican Republic. A devout Christian, he is committed to bringing hope to those with the least worldwide.tudied in Prague (Human Rights); Bachelor of Science, International Affairs, Florida State University.
Maria Teresa de Almeida
Development Coordinator
Joined the Alfalit team: 2006
Born: Angola, Africa
Fled to Portugal with her family in 1975 as a long, protracted civil war erupted leaving behind a successful coffee plantation which was never recouped. Teresa worked at Mount Hope Bible School (14 years) and Abundant Life Christian Center (12 years), where she was introduced to Alfalit as the Center’s liaison. Also, a translator/interpreter (20 years) for renowned speakers from Europe, Australia, and USA. As a testament to her parents, Teresa’s main goal is to serve others in God’s name.
Alexandra Coll
Chief of Staff
Joined the Alfalit team: 2003
Born: Colombia. Moved to Miami in 1991.
Education: Universidad Libre de Colombia , Law and Political Sciences Bachelor.
Currently pursuing degree with a major in Accounting. She and husband Alvaro have 3 children, two of whom are in college. She worked in the Manufacturing and Freight Forwarding Industry in management for many years before joining Alfalit. In all, she has over 20 years in the management and accounting fields. She was recently promoted to Chief of Staff. Passionate for the Kingdom of God, she devotes all her professional and personal efforts in the name of Christianity.
Catherine F. Penrod, MPA
Executive Director
Joined the Alfalit team: 2016
Born: Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania
Education: Masters Degree, Public Administration; Bachelors Degree, Social Sciences, both from Pennsylvania State University. Certification: Harvard Business School, Strategic Perspectives in Nonprofit Management.
With over 30 years of nonprofit experience, Catherine feels she is blessed to end her incredible nonprofit career with Alfalit, an organization that has dramatically changed her life in many ways. The mother of four adult children, she plans to retire in 2022.
Gabriela Adarve
Development Coordinator
Joined the Alfalit team: 2019
Born: Orlando, FL. 1st generation American born to Colombian parents.
Education: Studied in Prague (Human Rights); Bachelor of Science, International Affairs, Florida State University.
Resides in Pembroke Pines with her parents and siblings. One of the newest members of the team, Gaby is motivated by the love and compassion she witnesses daily at Alfalit.