The Reader Newsletter

November 2023

Creating Access to Adult Education

A message from Literacy Alliance CEO, Marcus Haile


One of the Literacy Alliance’s core beliefs is that literacy is a part of education. From that belief comes our goal to meet a need in the community for increased access to education for adult learners at all levels. This means providing instruction from foundational literacy skills through high-school completion. 


Reflecting that focus, the Literacy Alliance recently received authorization by the Florida Department of Education as an approved provider of adult education, and we were the first nonprofit in the state to receive such recognition under the FDOE’s new strategic plan.  


To increase adult education access, we will build on our strength to provide instruction through one-on-one tutoring, small group classes, and online instruction that are customized to the schedules, locations, and circumstances of adult learners.  


Whether you are a volunteer, donor, partner or generally interested individual, you are part of a movement to ensure any adult learner, no matter what level they are starting at, can continue their education on their terms. You make up the “alliance” in the Literacy Alliance. Thank you for being a part of our mission.

Bank of America Invests in Neighborhood Access


Bank of America awarded the Literacy Alliance the Neighborhood Builders Award for its efforts to increase access to adult education. Funds from the award will expand sites in neighborhood locations for tutoring and small group classes with an emphasis on foundational skill building and the career development goals of adult learners.


The Literacy Alliance was one of only two organizations to receive the award this year. The other award winning organization was Downtown Ecumenical Services Council which is a referral partner for the Literacy Alliance. We are thrilled to be awarded this grant in the same year as one of our valued partners.


Literacy Alliance CEO, Marcus Haile, and COO, Anita Edwards, attended the award ceremony with Literacy Alliance Board members and will participate in a series of national leadership development opportunities hosted by Bank of America throughout 2024. 

The Alliance Expands with the YMCA


Congratulations to the YMCA for the launch of its New American Welcome Center! The Literacy Alliance is proud to be the provider of English language and citizenship classes for the participants. Instructors Aimee Parker and Abby Perdigon have grown the program from a few students in one class to planning multiple classes in the new year.

Year End Appeal and Matching Gift Opportunity


The Literacy Alliance has had more than 100% growth in enrollment over the past five years. While we are generously supported by several major contributors such as those mentioned in this newsletter, we rely on individual donors for our long-term success and sustainability.


The Literacy Alliance's year end giving campaign is underway right now. Funds raised will be used to enroll new adult learners in 2024. And, donations up to $500 made online (and only online!) can be matched dollar for dollar by the Jessie Ball duPont Fund. Your gift makes all the difference in our continued success. Please give today by making your online gift at literacyallnefl.org/donate!