Breaking Barriers: The Urgent Need for Adult Literacy Investment

Recent data from the Barbara Bush Foundation reveals a troubling trend: approximately 28% of adults aged 16-25—nearly 59 million people—read below the equivalent of a third-grade level. This alarming statistic highlights a growing crisis in adult literacy, one that has profound ripple effects across generations.

At the Manatee Literacy Council, we see firsthand how low literacy impacts families. When parents and caregivers struggle with reading, they face daily challenges—from understanding medical instructions to filling out job applications. But perhaps most concerning, they are less equipped to support their children’s literacy development, perpetuating a cycle of educational and economic hardship.

Why This Matters

Strong literacy skills are the foundation for success in work, health, and civic engagement. Yet, with declining adult literacy rates, the U.S. faces significant workforce and social challenges. When adults gain literacy skills, they earn higher wages, improve their health outcomes, and create stronger learning environments for their children.

Investing in Literacy = Investing in Communities

The solution starts with expanding access to free, high-quality adult education programs. At Manatee Literacy Council, we provide personalized tutoring and small-group instruction to help adults improve their literacy and language skills. But we can’t do it alone—we need:

✅ More volunteer tutors to work one-on-one with learners
✅ Increased funding to sustain and expand our programs
✅ Greater awareness about the impact of adult literacy on families and communities

How You Can Help

📚 Volunteer – Become a literacy tutor and change a life.
💡 Advocate – Share the importance of adult education with policymakers.
💰 Donate – Support our mission to empower adults through literacy.

By investing in adult literacy today, we can break the cycle of low literacy and build a brighter future for generations to come. Join us in making a difference.