Impact Report: Where Literacy Meets Lifelong Learning

When Ed Taylor came to the Literacy Center of West Michigan, he was fighting serious disease and didn't know how much time he had left. But rather than letting the uncertainty of his life stop him, Ed decided it was time to focus on something deeply important to him - improving his reading and writing. "There's a big difference between reading and understanding what you're reading," he told us when reflecting on why he reached out for help.

Ed's goal was simple yet profound: to set am example for his daughter. "I set forth and make an example for my daughter," he said. "No matter what age you is, if you need help you reach out and get it. We were deeply saddened when Ed passed away in May 2025. Yet his commitment to learning, his kindness, and his courage continue to inspire us.

When Ed was paired with his literacy coach, Andy Howland, the two quickly developed a connection. For two years, they met weekly at the Grand Rapids Public Library, turning their lessons into conversations about life and learning. "We talked about life, and it became more of a friendship," said Ed.

Andy remembers Ed as thoughtful and caring. "I'm glad we were able to build a relationship," Andy reflected. "In getting to know him, I got to love the guy. He was mellow, kind-hearted, and introspective. He thought a lot about things. What a nice quality to have - he was never judgmental of others."

"Ed was really smart - I could have a conversation with him about anything," Andy said. "He had a great vocabulary and knew how to put words together." Every week when they met, they would take out letter tiles and Andy would spell a word for Ed to write down. Then he would switch out one letter to make a new word, 25 words each time. After 15 weeks, both Ed and Andy were impressed at the improvement in his handwriting and spelling.

Ed's story exemplifies the centrality of literacy to our lives and our connections with others, as even in the face of serious disease and limited time, Ed was committed to learning and to building a relationship with Andy. We are honored to have been a part of his life.

Watch this video to meet Ed and Andy.

This story is one piece of a much larger picture. Our annual Impact Report brings together learner stories, program highlights, and outcomes from across the Literacy Center’s work over the past year. You can find more stories like this, and a deeper look at our impact, in the 24-25 Impact Report: Where Literacy Meets Life.