Workplace ESL classes have become an important strategy to increase employee engagement for Grand Rapids Chair, with excellent results over more than eight years of partnership with the Literacy Center of West Michigan. 

Meet Elizabeth, one of our featured coaches who will be celebrated at Spellebration on Wednesday April 15th.

Meet Sylvie and Francois, two learners who will be highlighted during Spellebration on Wednesday April 15th.

Meet Eileen, one of our coaches being celebrated at Spellebration on Wednesday April 15th.

Meet Felipe, one of the many learners being celebrated at Spellebration on Wednesday April 15th.

Meet Karsten, one of the many coaches being celebrated during Spellebration on Wednesday April 15th.

Meet Sudha, one of the many learners being celebrated at Spellebration on Wednesday April 15th.

Thanks to WOOD TV8 for featuring the Literacy Center's programming and our learner Tabo! Watch the video and read the article here: Afghan woman reclaims dream of working in health care in West Michigan | WOODTV.com

The Literacy Center of West Michigan is pleased to share an excerpt of the Learner Spark, Issue No. 3, now available as a free PDF download. Learner Spark is a learner-written magazine that features original stories created by adult learners across Literacy Center programs. Each piece reflects lived experience and is published in the writer’s own words, supporting literacy growth while honoring the voices and perspectives of the people at the heart of our work. Consider becoming a volunteer literacy coach today to support adult learners like Alfonso!

Thanks to FOX17 West Michigan for featuring our Family Literacy program and partnership with Kentwood Public Schools in this article:

Kentwood parents learn English to better connect with their kids' schools
 

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.

Lesvia first enrolled in English classes with the Literacy Center in 2012, attending sessions held at her child’s elementary school. Since then, she has remained an active learner—building her English skills year after year while also becoming a steady leader in her school community. 

The Literacy Center of West Michigan was pleased to have its partnership with Corewell Health featured on this issue of WGVU's Mutually Inclusive television show. Click here to watch!

Maria Guadalupe’s journey with the Literacy Center has taken her from her daughter’s school, to her health clinic, and now to her workplace. At each step, literacy has opened new doors for her and her family. 

Board member Bill Guest, Executive Director Dr. Wendy Falb, and Senior Director of Programs Marcus Little joined the Michigan delegation at the National Skills Coalition Policy Conference in Washington, D.C. in February 2026.