Basic Literacy

"When I started learning to read, my goal was to help myself and my family. But now that I can read, I realize that I can do more than that. I can help make this a better country for everyone -- by voting, by helping in my children's school, and maybe even by tutoring somebody else."
--George P., an LVA adult learner

The majority of the adult learners served by LVA are in basic literacy instruction. Our target population is made up of adults who read at Level I, the lowest of five levels described by the U.S. Department of Education in the National Adult Literacy Survey of 1993. According to that survey, over forty million adults in this country, or 21 to 23%, are at Level I. They cannot read basic signs or maps, complete simple forms, or carry out many of the tasks required of an adult in our society.

LVA offers a professionally designed and field-tested workshop that enables volunteers to tutor basic literacy students. After being matched with an adult learner, tutors receive regular support and additional opportunities for training through the local LVA affiliate. In over 36 years of providing free, individualized tutoring services, LVA has proven that professionally trained and supported volunteers can be effective tutors. More than half a million lives have been changed as a result.