The Literacy Center of West Michigan, in partnership with the Coalition on Adult Basic Education (COABE), invites you to join us in celebrating National Adult Education and Family Literacy Week, September 16-20, 2024.

As the state's largest community-based adult literacy provider serving immigrants, refugees, and native speakers of English, our one-one-one coaching, workplace-focused classes, citizenship, health, and family literacy programs are all intentionally designed to fit within the priorities of adults' lives. 

In Kent County, more than 85,000 adults read below a fourth grade reading level. Statewide, that number is more than 1.8 million. The Literacy Center of West Michigan serves more than 1,200 adult learners each year, including nearly 300 language learners in workforce development programs.

During National Adult Education and Family Literacy Week, COABE emphasizes the economic gains enjoyed by individuals, employers, and communities alike when barriers to learning are removed.

“Language skills are essential for all of us to bring our full selves to our work,” said Marcus Little, senior director of workplace and community programming. "While our program removes barriers to finding a job or excelling within a career, we also recognize the profound impact that English language instruction has in empowering people to live abundantly at home and throughout their lives."

This week, we invite you to invest in raising the assets of all our learners, helping them find community, fulfill their potential, and be understood. Support our mission with a financial gift today. Follow our social media channels (Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn) for highlights on how our learners are leading in their families, workplaces, and communities.

About COABE. The Coalition on Adult Basic Education is the premier national professional association of adult educators. Over 82,000 educators strong, COABE’s mission is to inspire educators so that adults succeed and communities thrive.