Bradenton, FL – November 20, 2025
Patricia’s Story: How Community, Courage, and Literacy Changed a Life
When Patricia Valdivia arrived in the United States from Peru six years ago, she carried the same fears and uncertainties many newcomers feel. She didn’t know what the future would hold, and trying to communicate in a new language made daily life more difficult than she expected. Even after a year in the country, simple conversations with coworkers, neighbors, or strangers felt intimidating.
But Patricia was determined to move forward, and that determination led her to the Manatee Literacy Council.
Finding Support During a Busy Workday
At the time, Patricia worked mornings and only had a short window in the middle of the day to focus on her English skills. Still, she made the choice to use her lunch break to attend MLC classes. That decision became a turning point. In those classrooms, she found not only instruction but also encouragement, kindness, and a judgment-free space to practice. Volunteers like Barrie, Ann, Chris, and Terri helped her build confidence in speaking aloud, even when she wasn’t sure of the right pronunciation. Over time, she began to feel more sure of herself, and more hopeful.
Moving Forward With New Opportunities
As her English improved, so did her opportunities. MLC matched Patricia with tutor Susan Birrell, who supported her through the process of applying for a job in a local school. With that new position came stability, pride, and a sense that she was truly becoming part of her community.
Patricia also joined MLC’s weekly Book Club, where facilitators Barbara, Victoria, and Denise guided learners through stories of every kind—mysteries, romances, historical adventures, and even futuristic fantasies. These conversations helped Patricia expand her vocabulary, strengthen her comprehension, and enjoy meaningful weekly discussions with friends from around the world.
A Dream Six Years in the Making
In late 2024, Patricia made a decision that would change her life: she wanted to become a U.S. citizen.
The team at MLC immediately connected her with a new tutor, Michael Vlaisavljevich, who worked with her patiently, consistently, and with deep empathy. With his support—and her own unwavering commitment—Patricia passed her citizenship interview on September 26th. On November 4th, she proudly took the Oath of Allegiance and became a United States citizen.
Her achievement represents everything MLC stands for: community, opportunity, and the belief that every adult deserves the chance to build the future they imagine.
Below is Patricia’s heartfelt letter to MLC, shared with her permission:
To MLC:
My name is Patricia Valdivia and I’m from Peru. When I came to USA six years ago, I was very worried and nervous because I didn`t know about how would be my future. After a year, it was very difficult for me to communicate with other people.
When I started in MLC I was working on the mornings so I used my lunch time to attend my classes but I think, it was the best decision. I never imagined to know people so kind, friendly and lovely. In each class, I always learned something new. All the tutors gave me confidence in myself and I didn`t worried to talk or pronounce something wrong because they taught me how I should say or pronounce that word.
If there were more people as Barrie, Ann, Chris, Terri and the other wonderful tutors, it would be easier to us to get better Jobs and our life could be less hard.
After some time, MLC gave me a wonderful Tutor, Ms. Susan Birrell, who helped me to apply and get a job in a school.
Also, we have the Book Club all the Wednesdays. With Barbara, Victoria and Denise you can travel to other countries and times. Sometimes the books are about mystery, sometimes love or maybe is only about a Humanoid. Reading those books you can improve your vocabulary, your comprehension and practice your conversation with the group each week.
On December 2024, I told them about to apply to my Citizenship test and immediately they gave me a new Tutor, Mr. Michael Vlaisavljevich. He is an incredible person. He taught me patiently, with empathy and understanding. He always believed in me and that was very important for me. On September 26th I had my interview and I did it so on November 4th, I took the Oath of Allegiance to the United States.
You really changed my life and you do the same with one hundreds of people that need a friendly hand in this country.
I’d like to thank you so much to MLC. Thank you, Michelle, Roger and all the staff. I always will be very grateful with you.
Patricia
If you would like to donate to MLC to help support the services that change lives in our community,
please consider donating through The Flanzer here.
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