Program
LiteracyWorks is a response to the civic and economic demand for an informed citizenry and highly qualified workforce. It stimulates networks of literacy providers and other educators to increase the supply of high quality community-based education that meets the needs and expectations of young people, adults, and their families.
Need
The vitality of business, the preparedness of the workforce, the success of schools, and the economic well being of families and neighborhoods is increasingly threatened by literacy levels that are insufficient to meet the demands of the 21st century. Though literacy and math are still core basic skills, they alone are no longer adequate for employment proficiency and success.
Solution
Each community uses a team of literacy entrepreneurs to mobilize community support and build capacity and resources to strengthen and expand literacy efforts as a means to solving the workforce crisis. Local partnerships are connected with one another and supported by a broad statewide effort that provides technical support and shares promising practices.
Impact
LiteracyWorks partnerships in Lawrence and Hampden County are hubs of activity in the community for coordination across programs, policies, and systems to strengthen adult and intergenerational literacy. They enhance the capacity for achieving high quality results by raising awareness about the need and leveraging new resources for literacy instruction.
