Oregon Literacy, Inc.


For two years I worked as editor for Oregon Literacy, Inc., a nonprofit dedicated to improving adult literacy. I was in charge of LitBits, a monthly two-page newsletter and Literally Speaking, a quarterly eight-page newsletter. Job duties includes:
  • Collaborating with the assistant editor and nonprofit directors
  • Managing meetings
  • Creating editorial calendar
  • Writing articles and taking photos
  • Supervising writers and volunteers, and editing their work
  • Using Creative Suite to layout newsletters

Both publications were in need of some TLC when I was first hired. I refined the focus and audience for both publications and revamped their designs to save on delivery cost and paper. To create more exciting and newsworthy content, I reached out to literacy programs across the state, and began accepting submissions from guest writers. When the Bush administration was considering axing federal funding for literacy programs, I produced an emergency edition, accepting article submissions from across the country.

​I launched an initiative to increase subscription rates that tripled LitBits' subscriptions and doubled Literally Speaking' subscriptions. I received a Certificate of Appreciation from Oregon Literacy in 2005.
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My position at Oregon Literacy, Inc. was my first job in communication, and it gave me the opportunity to develop leadership skills, work on meaningful projects and promote something I believe in – that it's never to late to meet educational and life goals.
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"I have worked with Jenny in several capacities since meeting her when we both worked for Oregon Literacy, Inc., a Portland-based nonprofit. She is filled with a curiousity and drive that make her a valuable asset as a writer and editor. 

I would highly recommend Jenny; she is punctual, careful and eager in her journalistic work, meeting deadlines and exploring new questions along the way. She can see a story coming together from afar and is always willing to help others make their own work the best possible."

Teresa Coates
​Former assistant editor at Oregon Literacy, Inc.
​LinkedIn Recommendation