Back in the 80′s we were inundated with Reading Is Fundamental commercials. Today I’m wondering if they still make those.
I stopped by the Alma Reeves Woods Library in Watts and met with Carolyn Francis, the director of the literacy center. What was I doing in Watts when there is a library in Compton? Good question. I was in Watts with my sisters a few weeks ago having breakfast at the Watts Coffee House. On our way out, I noticed a flyer with big bold letters that read: HELP AN ADULT LEARN TO READ!
Anyone that knows me, knows I’m an avid reader. I have been reading for as long as I can remember. I read for pleasure and I read for information. Since I enjoy and value reading so much, shouldn’t I be sharing my love for reading?
According to studies:
- Over 1.4 million Americans in the work force read below a fourth grade level.
- More than 27 million Americans over age 17 are functionally illiterate.
- Approximately 40 percent of minority youth are functionally illiterate.
Do these stats bother you?
Not knowing how to read in our society really isn’t an option… Everything requires reading. The ability to read and make out words isn’t enough, being able to understand what you read (reading comprehension) is just as important. Not being able to read and comprehend affects one’s earning potential and lifestyle. (watch this video)
People with reading problems face difficulties with:
- Filling out job applications
- Following written instructions
- Reading warning labels
- Reading menus
- Reading street signs
- Passing a driver’s test
- Reading ballots
- Reading newspapers
- Helping a child with home work
- Advancing in the work place
- Completing school
- Operating a computer
- Checking email
Helping someone learn and/or improve their reading skills can make a huge difference in their life. That flyer really struck a chord within me. The flyer said: HELP OTHERS REACH THEIR GOALS! I took it home and went online to learn how I could make a difference in Compton. To my surprise, of the 15 literacy center locations, Compton was not one of them. The closest location to me is in Watts.
Meeting with Carloyn Francis about the Adult Literacy Program was an eye opener. My first question was how do people even find out about this program if they can’t read a flyer or other written materials. I learned that unfortunately many are unaware of this free service and that the program relies heavily on word of mouth. I left the meeting with a burning desire to encourage people to become volunteer reading tutors and to spread the word about this program so that those that need help with reading get it!
Becoming a volunteer involves a one day training and being available at least 1 hour for 1 day per week. We can all make a difference one person at a time. Giving back is not always about money…sometimes its a matter of giving of your time and skills to make a real difference.
Los Angeles Public Library Adult Literacy http://www.lapl.org/literacy/als.html
Thank you for this very thoughtful post. It’s quite disturbing and disheartening that so many people lack basic literacy skills. I guess we often forget how blessed we are, especially with things that seem to basic to us.
I find the statistics in the post to be somewhat scary, for some reason having gone through public schooling myself I am not suprised.
The system isn’t perfect and unfortunately I watched as more than a handful of my peers slipped through the cracks and into adulthood without graduating from High School.
Sad to know that there are lots of people that are illiterate. Anywhere in the world, the literacy level is quiet bad. I don’t know what’s the reason behind but I do hope that the record for illiterate people will low down.
I began working for SCOLA Volunteers for Literacy in Scranton, PA 3 years ago as Development Director and was shocked to learn how prevalent illiteracy is. We have people walking through our doors every day, but the hardest to reach are the American-born non-readers. As I write this, I am listening in on a 57 year-old learner who is reading and comprehending–a big change from where he began over a year ago. He grew up right in this area and couldn’t read.
There is hope for those who do not read. There are many Literacy Councils across the country meeting these needs as best they can. Most are completely staffed by volunteers and most offer their services for free.
I am so proud to be affiliated with a literacy council. It is a truly uplifting place to work and volunteer. ( I also volunteer as a math tutor.) The people who come to our facility are people looking to make their lives better and achieve the “American Dream”. If you have a literacy council anywhere near where you live or work, I encourage you to get involved. As Marenda says, you can make a difference!
Thanks for spreading the word!
Some of those statistics are really disturbing. I tutor myself so I am doing the best I can to help out.
Thanks for posting this its a reminder that anyone can volunteer for this cause and help an adult, a child, anyone who struggles with reading. Learning to read is so important thanks for bringing attention to this.
Its really sad to here about the millions of Americans who are illiterate over age 17. Anyways thanks for the information bro.