ALBUQUERQUE, N.M.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--July 6, 2007--The Qwest Foundation today announced a $2,500 grant to the New Mexico Coalition for Literacy (NMCL), to train and certify literacy volunteers through its tutor-training program.

The NMCL encourages and supports community-based literacy programs and is the New Mexico representative for the national program, ProLiteracy America, that oversees certification of tutor trainers and volunteer tutors in the field.

"Literacy unlocks so many doors to a prosperous New Mexico, and the NMCL helps its clients gain those skills," said Loretta Armenta, Qwest president for New Mexico. "One of my favorite pastimes is enjoying a good book, but literacy is far more than that. NMCL works to help people learn to function in today's fast-paced, technical world, and I'm proud of the Qwest Foundation for being a part of this great program."

"Since we started providing services in 1987, more than 20 new literacy projects have been established here in New Mexico," said Rena Paradis, NMCL executive director. "We depend so much on donations and grants, and I'm glad that Qwest sees the value in what we do and wants to partner with us. New Mexico's tomorrow will be brighter because of the efforts of Qwest. We simply would not be able to train as many volunteers throughout the state without the support of the Qwest Foundation."

The NMCL's core projects include operation of a statewide, toll-free referral, recruitment and information hotline sponsored by television station KOAT-TV; administration of the State of New Mexico Literacy Program Appropriation; operation of the New Mexico Literacy Resource Center, as designated by the New Mexico State Library; and operation of a Literacy Training and Technical Assistance Program providing development opportunities to community-based literacy projects in a wide range of program areas.

About Qwest Foundation

The Qwest Foundation's core principle is that investing in people and communities provides lasting value for the future. The Qwest Foundation awards grants to community-based programs that generate high-impact and measurable results, focusing on pre-K through grade 12 education.

About the New Mexico Coalition for Literacy

The NMCL depends upon private donations as well as government funding to conduct its wide ranging development activities. A Board of Directors representing the entire state serves to keep the NMCL in the forefront of literacy program development. The NMCL enjoys the bipartisan support of state's Governor and Legislature. The NMCL works with the New Mexico Department of Cultural Affairs and State Library, who have designated the NMCL as the sole provider of statewide literacy coordination and program enhancement activities.

Copyright Business Wire 2007

Qwest Foundation

Qwest Foundation

The Qwest Foundation is dedicated to enriching the lives of customers and the communities we serve. It's more than just caring; it's a commitment to making a difference. The Qwest Foundation awards grants that generate high impact and measurable results through community-based programs in the area of pre-K through 12 education. We encourage you to learn more about the Foundation and request funding for your program. Qwest® is a leading provider of voice, video and data services across America and the world. For more than a century, homes and businesses have relied on our dependable dial tone connection. We value the strength and vitality we help bring to the communities where we live, work and play-through tens of thousands of volunteer hours donated by employees and retirees, our foundation contributions and numerous other avenues. In communications and community, our goal is to lead.

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