Awards Time

Dallas Public Library makes top 10 list for its program helping workers

Dallas Public Library was one of 10 libraries to be recognized.

Courtesy photo

The Dallas Public Library won a top award for innovation for its GED Testing and Workforce Development Project, which helps Dallas adults earn their GED.

The award came from the Urban Libraries Council, the membership association of North America's public libraries. Their panel of experts selected Dallas from a pool of over 250 submissions. The library was one of 10 libraries to win an award, representing the 21st century library's role as a leader and pioneer for change.

Having a GED allows residents to hold better jobs and earn high wages. In some parts of Dallas, nearly 50 percent of adults over the age of 25 have less than a high school education.

Dallas Public Library's GED Testing and Workforce Development Project was created to address the needs of the nearly 28 percent of Dallas County adults with less than a high-school education. Dallas Public Library opened the first GED testing center in a public library in Texas. They've since become the leader among Dallas-area certified testing centers.

In 2016, the library administered the most exams (870) with the most graduates (131) and highest pass rate (79 percent). The library also offers scholarships for qualifying learners.

"By offering GED testing in our Central Library and full scholarships in partnership with Atmos Energy, we have lowered barriers for adults seeking to change their lives, says Jo Giudice, Director of Libraries. "The testing center allows the library to walk with adults through their GED journey and beyond to pursuing better jobs or higher education."

This program consistently surpasses qualitative and quantitative goals, ultimately serving as a catalyst for change among test-takers by introducing them to DPL’s vast array of resources and helping them to secure jobs and pursue secondary education.

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Animal News

Dallas animal shelter invites residents to host a pet during holiday

DAS

Husky at Dallas Animal Services

Dallas Animal Services (DAS) is inviting the community to help bring pets “Home for the Holidays” by adopting or fostering during one of the shelter’s busiest times of the year.

DAS has achieved strong positive outcomes this quarter, including adoptions, foster-to-adopt placements, and underage foster placements, with 1,377 in October and 1,378 in November. The department is now working toward a December goal of 1,400 positive outcomes, with 588 completed so far this month.

“We are grateful for the support our community continues to show,” said Victoria Chittam Bennett, Assistant Director. “Every adoption opens a kennel for another pet in need, and the holidays are an especially meaningful time to welcome a new companion.”

This season, adopters will also have the chance to participate in the Friends of Dallas Animal Services (FODAS) 12 Days of Holiday Giveaways, fully funded and supported through donations from generous community supporters. For more information about this initiative, visit friendsofdas.org and watch out for announcements on social media.

Holiday staycations
Residents who may not be ready to adopt can still support DAS pets by participating in Silent Night Holiday Staycations, a short-term foster opportunity that gives dogs a relaxing break from the shelter during the holiday period.

Pickup dates are scheduled for December 20-21, with drop-off options on December 27-28 or January 3-4. Participants typically spend 1-3 hours at the shelter selecting a foster match, and contact with pets outside the home should be limited. Questions may be directed to DASFtA@dallas.gov.

“Holiday Staycations allow our dogs to decompress and show their personalities in a home environment,” said Amanda Earl, Assistant Director. “The insight we receive from these foster stays is invaluable in helping pets find permanent homes.”

DAS encourages the community to adopt, foster, volunteer, or share adoptable pets to help meet December’s lifesaving goals.
“Together, we can bring home the holidays for the pets relying on us,” said Director Paul Ramon.

For more information on adoptable pets, holiday programs, or ways to get involved, visit https://bedallas90.org/ or stop by the DAS Shelter at 1818 N. Westmoreland Rd.

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