Beyond the Classroom: Advancing Literacy and Community Impact Through YAY Literacy and LDR 2002

Authors

• Jeanella Jacotin, University of Central FloridaFollow
• Junika Octa, University of Central FloridaFollow
• Alejandra Pena, University of Central FloridaFollow
• Giuseppe Riccobono, University of Central FloridaFollow
• Sangrae Kim, University of Central FloridaFollow

Streaming Media

Files

Course Code

LDR

Course Number

2002

Faculty/Instructor

Professor Esther Mandelbaum

Faculty/Instructor Email

esther.mandelbaum@ucf.edu

Abstract, Summary, or Creative Statement

This service-learning project partnered with YAY Literacy Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to empowering underserved communities through literacy and life skills education. The primary objective of this project was to address literacy gaps by developing engaging and accessible educational content for students across multiple grade levels. Over the course of the project, our team created 15 presentations covering key topics such as reading literacy, financial literacy, life skills, mathematics, and artificial intelligence, all designed to promote real-world application and long-term student success.

In addition to content creation, the team collaborated virtually to ensure consistency and quality across all materials, while also participating in in-person initiatives, including financial literacy and financial aid workshops for elementary and high school students. A culture audit revealed strong alignment between our group and the organization’s core values, including service, education, teamwork, and community impact. Key course concepts, such as the Three C’s: commitment, collaboration, and citizenship, were consistently demonstrated throughout the project.

The project produced measurable outcomes, reaching over 2,000 students, with an average worksheet performance score of 94% and high levels of student motivation and engagement. These results highlight the effectiveness of structured, real-world learning tools in improving student understanding. Overall, this experience reinforced the importance of service-learning as a means of creating meaningful community impact while developing critical professional and leadership skills.

Keywords

Service-learning; Literacy Education; Community Impact; Nonprofit Organization; Financial Literacy; Student Engagement; Collaboration; Educational Development; Underserved Communities; Experimental Learning

Recommended Citation

Jacotin, Jeanella; Octa, Junika; Pena, Alejandra; Riccobono, Giuseppe; and Kim, Sangrae, "Beyond the Classroom: Advancing Literacy and Community Impact Through YAY Literacy and LDR 2002" (2026). High Impact Practices Student Showcase Spring 2026. 76.
https://stars.library.ucf.edu/hip-2026spring/76