The Columbia Valley region of the Scottish Rite donated $100,000 to benefit the RiteCare-Communication Disorders Early Literacy Lab at Truman State University

Members representing the Columbia Valley region of the Scottish Rite recently donated $100,000 to benefit the RiteCare-Communication Disorders Early Literacy Lab. Pictured, front row, from left; Barry Cundiff; Bobby Daniels; Duane Dimmitt; Janet Gooch, Communications Disorders chair; Amy Little; Kenneth Read, Truman Board of Governor; John Siscel, Truman Board of Governor. Back row; Keith Neese, Executive Director, Masonic Home; Kelley Snipes; Terri Fechtling; Robert Barrett; University President Darrell W. Krueger; Brent Stewart, Grand Lodge of Missouri.

The RiteCare-Communication Disorders Early Literacy Lab, located on the Truman campus, will be able to improve upon the free services it provides to the northeast Missouri community thanks to a $100,000 donation from RiteCare Valley of Columbia, a Missouri affiliate of the Scottish Rite, a national Masonic organization. RiteCare Valley’s mission is to aid and assist children with learning and communication disorders.

In 2003, Truman and  RiteCare Valley agreed to co-found and support the RiteCare-Communication Disorders Early Literacy Lab to prevent literacy problems in children who are at high risk. Truman faculty members and students provide their services at the Early Literacy Lab, while RiteCare provides funds for materials, training and other program expenses.

Funds from the RiteCare Valley donation will be used to provide state-of-the-art tests, therapy materials, computers and software to aid in the evaluation and treatment of clients. It may also be used to support student research, continuing education and other related activities in the area of literacy.

For more information about the RiteCare-Communication Disorders Early Literacy Lab, or to make an appointment at the Speech and Hearing Clinic, call 660.785.7414.