We’re excited to introduce you to Jan Handler, the secretary of Elaine Bacon Literacy Program (EBLP) and coordinator of our Conversation Partner program. Jan has been an integral part of our organization since moving to Houghton, bringing warmth, experience, and a passion for connection to her work with students.
Let’s get to know you!
Thanks for the opportunity to share a little background and to advocate for the Elaine Bacon Literacy Program!
I’ve lived in several states, growing up in Connecticut but later moving to New Jersey, Tennessee, and Iowa. I moved to the U.P. after retiring, encouraged by my family to join them in this beautiful place. This summer I’ll celebrate my sixth year as a Houghton resident, and I’ve thoroughly enjoyed living here.
Getting out for walks in the neighborhoods or on trails is an activity I really enjoy. Each week I go out with the Keweenaw Running Group and enjoy a walk with those who aren’t running. I also enjoy doing individual tutoring for as many as six students weekly through the Elaine Bacon Literacy Program (EBLP).
As a relative newcomer to the area, it’s also been a priority to meet new people and get involved in the community. I’m active in International Neighbors as well as being part of a book group and several local organizations. These include the Hancock Home Study Club, a long-standing local group, and Wild Ones of the Keweenaw, a great source of information for adding native plants to support pollinators. Attending cultural events at the Rosza Center and elsewhere is another activity I enjoy.
Journey with EBLP
I learned about the program before I arrived, thanks to my son, Rob. I was tutoring international students as a volunteer while working in Cedar Rapids, and he alerted me to this local group so I could remain involved in this important type of service. Shortly after arriving in Houghton, I was fortunate to meet co-directors Denise and Beth. I began tutoring at that time and was subsequently invited to join the board.
As a board member, I coordinate the conversation partner portion of the program. Being a student or volunteer partner offers a very beneficial opportunity for informal learning and friendship. International adults can be paired with a local mentor who meets with them weekly. The partners plan how they want to spend their time as they get to know each other and share conversation.
Experiences and Reflections
I thoroughly enjoy meeting new students who come from many nations and bring so many wonderful talents to share and develop. The students we serve are very committed to improving their English communication skills, whether they have recently arrived or have been in the U.S. for some time. It is also a pleasure to work with colleagues who devote their time and energy to supporting students in meeting their goals.
I’ve been especially grateful to have helped some EBLP students as they studied for and passed their citizenship tests. It was great to see their well-deserved joy (and relief!) in reaching this significant milestone, and I look forward to providing tutoring support for others in the future.
Another highlight for me is when students gain the skill and confidence to write their first story for the program’s newsletter. Knowing the personal effort that goes into preparing a piece, I’m always very proud to see their articles in print. I have learned so much from the students I’ve been fortunate to work with, and I try to reassure them that English is truly a difficult language and that even native speakers make mistakes. I am so impressed by the students I have met and humbled in thinking about the challenges many have had on their journeys.
Personal Note
Although I haven’t had the chance to travel to many countries—just a few visits to Canada—I love reading about the places our students call home. In high school and college, I studied French and once considered becoming a French teacher. But I ended up following my other academic passion: math. That led me to a career in teaching, which later included college-level teacher education and university administration.
I’ve always loved teaching—whether in a classroom or through informal moments. It’s a joy to help spark curiosity and confidence in others.
Message to The Community
My encouragement to all English language learners is to jump in, get started, and give it time- don’t give up! There are many ways to keep learning, including reading or watching movies (our local library is a wonderful resource!), joining a group class, having individual lessons, or making time for casual conversation.
And for potential EBLP volunteers, please reach out and ask questions. If it seems to suit you, give volunteering a try. It may be just the spark you were looking for, and a way to help others while bringing new joys to your own days.
Thank you, Jan, for sharing your story and your heart with our EBLP community!
Interested in becoming a volunteer like Jan? Contact us here to learn more.
Elaine Bacon Literacy Program 