Bernardine Franciscan Sisters, Mother Veronica Resource Center

History: In 1894 four Bernardine Franciscan Sisters migrated from Poland to the United States with Mother Veronica Grzedowska as the leader of the group. They were immigrants coming to a new country to work with and for other immigrants. Reading, PA was where they established their first permanent home and ministry. Throughout the years, the Sisters have cared for and responded to the requests of people in many countries and cultures. It is in this spirit that they established the Mother Veronica Resource Center in response to the requests of newcomers to our community.

Programs: English as a Second Language (ESL) classes, General Education Development (GED) preparation classes (Language Arts, Mathematics in English, Spanish), Citizenship preparation classes, Computer classes, Adult Basic Education (ABE) and GED tutoring

Goals: 1. Impart a basic knowledge of English so that adult students can: improve their quality of life; provide better for their families through education and work opportunities; advocate for themselves in schools, hospitals, jobs, etc.; and pass the Naturalization Test;

2. Help adult students prepare to take the GED Test -- in addition to classes and tutoring, making access to online instructional programs available; 3. Offer preparation classes for the Naturalization Test; 4. Facilitate the attainment of computer skills; and 5. Provide resources to inform clients of available services and opportunities.