For the past 50 years, the Kalamazoo Literacy Council has been dedicated to empowering adult learners in Kalamazoo County. This incredible milestone is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the volunteers, staff, and supporters who have made it their mission to help individuals improve their literacy skills and achieve their academic and life goals.
Founded in 1974, the KLC has provided free one-on-one tutoring to native English speakers and English Language Learners in the community who struggle with reading, writing, spelling, & comprehension skills. Through personalized instruction and support, we have helped countless individuals gain the confidence and skills they need to succeed in school, work, and everyday life.
Over the past five decades, the Kalamazoo Literacy Council has made a significant impact on the lives of its learners. Many have gone on to earn their GED, enroll in college or vocational training programs, and secure better jobs. Some have even become tutors themselves, paying it forward and helping others on their literacy journey.
To celebrate this momentous occasion, the Kalamazoo Literacy Council is hosting a series of signature events throughout the year, including our annual meeting, community outreach initiatives, and recognition ceremonies for volunteers, learners, and donors. We are thrilled to partner with Kalamazoo Public Library to welcome adult learner and motivational speaker Oliver James to Kalamazoo in April. We are working with Western Michigan University and the City of Kalamazoo to officially launch the Albert White Literacy Trail and Literacy Lane play street in the Edison neighborhood. In August, we will host Kalamazoo Scrabble Fest, our largest annual fundraiser. We will be continually promoting our Everyone Needs To Read public awareness campaign to raise visibility around the importance of literacy and the ongoing need for adult education resources in the community.
As we reflect on the past 50 years, we are reminded of the incredible impact that the Kalamazoo Literacy Council has had on the lives of so many individuals in our community. We are grateful for the dedication and commitment of everyone who has been a part of this organization, and we look forward to continuing to empower adult learners for many years to come.
If you are interested in getting involved with the Kalamazoo Literacy Council, whether as a volunteer tutor, donor, or supporter, we encourage you to reach out to us. Together, we can continue to make a difference in the lives of adult learners in Kalamazoo County and beyond!
