August 10, 2010 (Washtenaw County, Michigan) – As Michigan residents are weighing which gubernatorial candidate can put the state back to work, Washtenaw Literacy -- a nonprofit that helps adults learn to read – is offering anyone who wants to build a stronger workforce hands-on opportunities for action. The acclaimed local group urgently needs volunteers and donations to address a pressing need for basic skill-building among a startling number of adults. The Michigan Council for Labor and Economic Growth (CLEG) found that 33% of working age Michigan adults are so low-literate they can’t hold a family-sustaining job or contribute to the state’s economy.*
“This is a statewide crisis that can prevent Michigan’s economy from recovering,” said Amy Goodman, executive director of Washtenaw Literacy. “We need a literate workforce if we want to keep good jobs in Michigan and attract new ones. Sadly, the facts are that Michigan is desperately behind.”
The CLEG report notes that of the 5 million working age adults in Michigan, almost 700,000 have neither a high school diploma nor a GED. While a diploma is typically considered the gateway to post-secondary education, community colleges from across the state reported that 60 percent of entrants need basic skill remediation before they can participate in classes. Adult education programs are meant to close that gap, preparing would-be students, but in Michigan 20 years of declining state support of basic adult education programs has resulted in fewer programs. In short, there’s a widening chasm between those who desperately need basic skills and access to skill-building.
Agencies such as Washtenaw Literacy are stepping in to ensure that low-literate adults have options and opportunities to contribute to Michigan’s economy. Running primarily with volunteers’ sweat equity, Washtenaw Literacy’s services are free to residents and have a startling track record of success: more than 90% of the adults in its programs reach at least one of their goals.
Not only are the programs successful, they’re cost effective. Washtenaw Literacy delivers a full year of one-on-one tutoring for just $600 – far less than the cost of a daily latte. The return on the $600? Some reports show that a year in a basic literacy class translates into a 25% increase in employment potential for the learner.
“Getting involved with Washtenaw Literacy is fulfilling because you’re directly investing in the health of your community and in Michigan’s rebirth,” says Goodman. “We have opportunities for everyone and anyone who wants to be part of a truly effective solution to a community problem.”
Indeed, the options to support Washtenaw Literacy cover a spectrum. Supporters can:
- Volunteer. The group eagerly accepts new tutors, training them to work with the adult learners who need their guidance. OR, help with behind-the-scenes work that helps the organization run smoothly. Time commitments are minimal – a few hours a week. Anyone interested can take a look at www.washtenawliteracy.org/volunteer for a no-obligation peek at the kinds of positions available.
- Donate. Donations enable Washtenaw Literacy to expand its work and fall marks the group’s biggest fundraising season. Its annual “World in a Basket” fundraiser will be held October 1 in Washtenaw Community College’s Morris Lawrence Building. In addition to enjoying a strolling dinner and auction -- where “baskets” of goods offered by local businesses as well as special vacation packages, and other special items go to the highest bidder – guests will meet local TV anchor Devin Scillian. An accomplished author and literacy advocate, Scillian and his wife Corey are honorary chairs for the volunteer-managed event, which raises 20% of the group’s operating revenue. To learn more about Washtenaw Literacy’s “World in a Basket,” visit worldinabasket.blogspot.com.
- Get involved at work. Washtenaw Literacy offers lunchtime programs to area businesses called the ABC’s of Washtenaw Literacy. They are a great way to help employees learn how to get started. Share the good news about Washtenaw Literacy’s ability to build a stronger community… one with less crime, less poverty, lower healthcare costs and workers with skills appropriate for a knowledge economy. Visit washtenawliteracy.org to learn more about the group’s work and read stories from both learners and tutors.
“Want to make a difference? Get on board with us,” says Goodman. “Donate, volunteer, spread the word… do whatever is within your reach. Help us and you help your community.”
* Read the CLEG report on Transforming Michigan’s Adult Learning Structure (PDF)
About World in a Basket
World in a Basket is an annual fundraiser supporting the work of Washtenaw Literacy. This year’s event is on October 1, at 5:30, in Washtenaw Community College’s Morris Lawrence Building. The evening includes drinks, strolling supper, and auctions of 130 gift baskets. Tickets are $75 if purchased by September 17 – a $10 discount off the regular $85 price. All tickets include beer, wine and strolling supper. Proceeds go directly to Washtenaw Literacy. For ticket information, call (734) 879-1320 or email Washtenaw Literacy at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
About Washtenaw Literacy
Washtenaw Literacy (www.washtenawliteracy.org) is a volunteer-based organization providing free literacy instruction customized to the needs of adults throughout Washtenaw County. Volunteers provide individual and group tutoring in reading and writing skills and in English as a second language so adults can improve their personal, family, and community lives.
