Founded in 1986 by educators and librarians, the Literacy of West Michigan is the largest community-based organization in the state and one of the largest in the country dedicated to adult literacy and English language learning. Our work is grounded in the understanding that our region will thrive only when the assets of all our community members can be fully realized. 

Recognizing that many traditional modes of adult education do not meet adults where they are at in their lives, we design highly relevant programs whose content and location are tailored to learner needs and community priorities.

Our community and employer partnerships make this possible.  A key player in workforce development, the Literacy Center offers context specific programs for businesses and job seekers. In addition to employers and training partners, we collaborate with school districts, libraries, and health care systems, providing parents, patrons, and patients the learning they need to not only navigate but effect positive change within these systems.

A leader in adult foundational education, the Literacy Center of West Michigan is setting national standards, and all of our programming is offered at no cost to the adult learner.

Our Mission

Bringing about a just and vibrant West Michigan through the power of literacy.

By the Numbers

• Nearly 1,300 learners served annually
• Est. 145,000 adults read below the 4th grade level in Kent County
• Learners attend more than 145,000 classroom instructional hours annually, taught by certified staff
• More than 8,000 hours contributed by volunteer literacy coaches in 1-on-1 tutoring
• $1,500 is the yearly cost to support one learner
• 45+ employers have engaged our services

Our Approach

The Literacy Center works alongside adult immigrants, refugees, native speakers of English, and anyone else looking to improve their reading and writing. We meet learners where they are – both within the community and along their language journey – and focus on the areas of life most important to them: family, work, and community. Enroll today.

Customized Workplace English

We deliver English as a second language (ESL) classes tailored to employers’ needs—onsite or virtual—so employees can improve communication in the context of their job. These classes raise productivity, safety, and employee engagement by embedding language instruction directly into workplace tasks. Learn more

Vocational ESL Classes

Our Integrated Education & Training (IET) and Bridge Classes combine literacy, job-related training, and English instruction in one program—so learners don’t have to complete separate courses. This ensures smoother transitions into credentialed pathways or employment, strengthening the workforce of West Michigan. Read about one example here.

Family Literacy

Parents are their children’s first teachers. Our Family Literacy programs strengthen language and literacy for both adults and children by offering English classes in neighborhood schools and early learning centers. With free childcare and family-focused lessons, parents can focus on their learning—and apply new skills at home right away.

Literacy Coaching

Anyone can become a volunteer literacy coach—no teaching background required. Our volunteers work one-on-one with adults on reading, writing, English, or life-skills goals. We provide training, resources, and match you to a learner whose schedule and interests match your own. Sign up today to learn more!

Health Literacy

Health literacy goes beyond translation—it’s about understanding. Through our Health Literacy classes, we partner with local federally qualified health centers to help parents and adults learn the language and confidence to communicate effectively with healthcare providers. With free onsite childcare, participants can focus on learning how to describe symptoms, understand doctors’ instructions, use patient portals, and read prescriptions. 

Community Classes

Our Community Classes bring English and life-skills instruction directly to where adults live and connect: neighborhood centers, libraries, and faith communities across West Michigan. We offer leveled classes that serve everyone from adults with no formal education to those seeking to advance their English and professional skills. Classes are held in person and online, making learning accessible for all and strengthening the language, digital, and communication skills that help families and communities thrive.

Citizenship Classes

Our Citizenship Classes combined English language learning with essential legal support to help adults prepare for naturalization. In 2023, the Literacy Center was awarded a prestigious U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) CINAS grant for this work; however, the program was canceled in early 2025 when federal funding ended. We’re exploring ways to relaunch this vital program through community partnerships, donors, and workplace or neighborhood collaborations. 

To learn more about any programs or partnerships, contact us. Give today to support this important programming!