Aquinas Literacy Center in Chicago’s McKinley Park neighborhood celebrated its 30th anniversary of serving English language learners at a presentation and reception on Thursday, October 8, 2026, at the center at 1751 W. 35th St., Chicago.
Members of the Catholic Adrian Dominican Sisters founded the literacy center in a church building basement in 1996, first assisting immigrants who desperately wanted to learn English. Since then, the center has grown to serve hundreds of adult learners, assisted by full-time staff and a cadre of trained volunteer tutors.
“We are deeply grateful for the Sisters’ legacy, for our learners and volunteers, and for all of the supporters these past 30 years who have helped make a difference in the lives of everyone we have encountered,” said Sabrina Poulin, executive director of the literacy center.
Performances and Dining
English learner Obdulia Vega, right, greets diners hungry for her appetizers and desserts at Aquinas Literacy Center's 30th Anniversary.A heartfelt choral reading performance by a group of literacy students celebrated the spirit of perseverance, courage and achievement at the anniversary celebration, entertaining attendees and showcasing the students' growing language skills.
Obdulia Vega, a current English learner, provided appetizers and desserts at the celebration alongside main dishes from Inspiration Kitchens. Eva and Ken Ricci also performed live music for attendees.
Expanded Programming
“Every voice matters, and our students’ performance beautifully reflected the heart of our mission,” Poulin said.
Aquinas Literacy Center has recently expanded its programming to include new ways for English learners to engage with others and apply their skills, including a digital literacy lab, gardening workshops and learning through sharing recipes and cooking.
More Tutors Needed
Aquinas Literacy Center hosts its 30th Anniversary in its main hall also used for English language instruction.Coming up are video production workshops leading to a November 30 showcase of students’ work, English Language Studio sessions on Tuesdays and drop-in Conversation Café sessions weekly at the center and the McKinley Park branch of the Chicago Public Library.
Aquinas hosts regular volunteer tutor training throughout the year, after which a local English speaker will work with an adult student for 90 minutes per week to support their learning. Contact Aquinas by sending email to info@aquinasliteracycenter.org or calling (773) 927-0512 to get information and sign up to become a tutor.
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