TL/DR –
Around 54% of adults between 17 and 74 years old read below a sixth-grade level in the US, with these figures often coinciding with areas of poor health and poverty. The Literacy Center of West Michigan is aiming to combat this, and was recently awarded a $1.12 million MI Impact Grant from the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity to progress its work. The Center focuses on adult literacy, and offers a citizenship and workforce development program designed around adult’s lives, with programs being held at people’s workplaces and children’s schools, and content tailored to their needs.
Efforts to Improve Adult Literacy in West Michigan with New Grant
Adult literacy remains a significant issue across the nation. About 54% of adults aged 17 to 74 read below the sixth-grade level, a problem heavily felt in areas suffering from poor health and poverty. The literacy rate is especially low in these regions.
Literacy Center of West Michigan’s Fight against Illiteracy
In Kent County, the Literacy Center of West Michigan has committed itself to eliminate barriers to literacy. The center recently received a $1.12 million MI Impact Grant from the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO) to support their efforts.
Interview with Wendy Falb, Executive Director of the Literacy Center
Wendy Falb, the executive director of the Literacy Center, discussed the significance of the new grant. The center’s programs are designed to meet adults’ needs, focusing on adult literacy, citizenship, and workforce development. They target adults with busy lives and create programs around their work, children’s education, and healthcare communication.
Importance of Literacy in Kent County
Last year, over 1,100 adults received instruction, and this number is expected to increase to between 1,300 and 1,500 this year. In Kent County, about 85,000 people read below the fourth-grade level. The center serves both native and non-native English speakers, accommodating a wide range of literacy levels.
The Impact of the Grant on Literacy Programs
This grant will support the expansion of integrated education and training, partnering with workforce development organizations like Grand Rapids Community College. The Literacy Center will then provide the necessary English instruction. The new grant supports the inclusion of current employees at Cornwell Health and aids in removing barriers to education.
Role of Grants and the Significance of the Program
The majority of this grant will be used to pay employees for their time in class, offering a potential proof of concept. If successful, this investment could lead to a strong talent pipeline and higher employee retention. This untested approach could bring about significant improvements in the adult literacy level.
Volunteer Opportunities at the Literacy Center
The Literacy Center also runs a program where volunteer tutors, referred to as literacy coaches, are paired with individuals in need. They currently have about 130 tutor-learner pairs, with 60 to 70 people on the waiting list. The center encourages anyone interested to join as a literacy coach and help change lives.
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