Information: literacyaction.org
With three out every 10 students sitting in a high school classroom not graduating with a diploma and 1.2 million Georgians over 25 without a high school diploma, adult education is a major issue for the state.
But Literacy Action, the largest adult literacy nonprofit in the Southeast, is working to change that. The nonprofit based in Decatur works every day to build better futures for undereducated adults by teaching literacy, life, and work skills that empower them to reach their highest potential.
Founded in a church basement in downtown Atlanta as a social justice and civil rights organization, “Literacy Action now teaches reading and math, English, citizenship, and workforce development to low-literate adults throughout the region,” said Austin Dickson, executive director of Literacy Action.
Mary May Moore has seen a significant change in her life since becoming a part of Literacy Action. “Bobbie [Goldman] and I have been working together since February 2014,” said Moore. “This organization has changed my life. I can read now, write, and even sign my name. I am driving and can read the road signs. I can grocery shop and know what I am buying. My tutor has helped me get to this point. If I can do this, anyone can do this. I love to learn although it is hard work. I want to help other people.”
Goldman is Moore’s tutor at Literacy Action.
Their programs are a success dbecause of the help of volunteers like Goldman. Volunteer opportunities vary in and out of the classroom. The community can help by being a classroom assistant, a one-on-one tutor, a teacher, or helping with fundraising events.
“This organization is so important to our community because it teaches individuals to be self sufficient and to be confident,” said Bobbie Goldman, who has tutored for two years. “They are more hireable, can participate in important civic responsibilities such as voting, and are better role models for their children.”
In other news: The annual A Meal to Remember black-tie gala, Meals On Wheels Atlanta's largest fundraising event of the year, raised more than $610,000 to help Atlanta seniors in need. Funds raised from this event will provide more than 100,000 meals delivered to Atlanta seniors in 2016 by Meals On Wheels Atlanta.
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