Born in Cuba and raised in Miami, Florida, Yamila Acosta brings light to the Literacy Council. Acosta began her work at MCLC in 2014 as an ESOL assistant, eventually becoming a full-time employee due to her passion and commitment to each program. Yamila is naturally bilingual, accommodating perfectly to the ESOL program, but communicates through goals and personal connection with any student that walks through the door.

“I want the students to find it fun, I want them to know that anything is possible.”

Born in and Raised in a small town in Georgia, I like to think of myself as someone who has come from an arduous life that has been difficult from the moment I was born, but I have overcome that adversity by striving to be better. I began working at the literacy council in 2019 as a Rasmussen work-study who tutored all day and loved every part of tutoring. That’s when I started questioning myself and asking what I wanted in life and what my goals were as a professional, and that’s when I found the answer I was looking for. I found a place that would accept me as me, not as someone who has disabilities or someone who is challenged by health issues, but as someone knowledgeable and witty. I love making a difference.

My name is Arlynda Heard, I’m 52 years old, and I was born and raised in Columbus, Ohio. I have 3 children, Been in Ocala for 7 years now, Joined Marion County Literacy Council in May 2024 as a volunteer, in November I became officially an employee of the school, I love working here and the love from the Staff is phenomenal!!!!