Changing lives one word at a time

Catherine Engstrom-Hadley
Staff Writer

According to the National Adult Literacy Survey, an estimated one in six adults in Washtenaw County do not have the skills to keep a job, read a map or prescription bottles, or fill out a job application. For over 50 years, Washtenaw Literacy, a local organization, has fought to help citizens learn and improve on basic skills.

The organization offers free tutoring for basic reading, writing, math and English as a second language.

Washtenaw Literacy was founded by group of professors from the University of Michigan, who later partnered with the Ypsilanti Public library. The group offers free tutoring for anyone who needs it.

Unemployment for low-skilled adults is higher than any other group, at 7.7 percent in 2017, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

The consequences for adult illiteracy are felt throughout the entire community, said Amy Goodman, executive director of Washtenaw Literacy.

“Literacy impacts everything, as well as economic well-being,” said Goodman. “89 percent of the people we see are below the poverty line. Illiteracy is a root cause of poverty for people.”

Tutors are always needed for Washtenaw Literacy. Volunteers can work with drop ins or commit to working directly with one person repeatedly. They offer an hour long “ABC’s of Washtenaw Literacy” informational class for potential volunteers.

If you know someone who is interested in receiving services from Washtenaw Literacy, you can direct them to call 734-337-3338 or come in-person to the Willow Run Community Opportunity Center 1301 S. Harris Rd., Ypsilanti.

This story has been updated to remove a comment that was the result of an apparent misunderstanding in an interview.

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