Why we do this work.

At Fox Valley Literacy, we are driven by the compelling need to address the possibility of education to empower adults in our community to meet their full potential.

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• Approximately 1 in 7 adults in Wisconsin struggle with basic literacy skills. This impacts their ability to secure employment, support their families, and engage fully in civic life.

• Over 800,000 adults in Wisconsin lack a high school diploma or equivalent. Without access to education, these individuals face significant barriers to economic stability and personal growth.

• Low English literacy levels are directly linked to higher rates of unemployment and lower earnings. Adults with limited literacy skills often find themselves trapped in low-wage jobs, unable to advance their careers.

• Increasing literacy skills releases the untapped potential for educated immigrants unable to use their degrees and professional training due to language or recertification barriers.

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By providing free classes and tutoring in English, General Education, Civics & Citizenship, Hmong Family Literacy, and Individual Projects, we aim to empower adult learners to improve their literacy skills and, in turn, their lives. Our work is essential not just for individual success but for the overall health and prosperity of our community.

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Improving literacy strengthens our communities by fostering a more educated workforce, enhancing civic engagement, and a robust and culturally diverse community. When we invest in education, we invest in a brighter future for everyone.

Together with our volunteers and donors, we are committed to breaking the cycle of low literacy and creating pathways for all adults to achieve their full potential, build confidence and create connections within their communities.

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• Improve spoken and written English.

• Build life and work readiness skills. 

• Earn a college degree.

• Earn their GED or HSED credentials.

• Become US citizens.

• Understand health information.

• Learn to read and understand math.

• Increase digital literacy.

• Build computer skills.

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This is our “WHY”

At Fox Valley Literacy, we are driven by the compelling need to address the literacy challenges faced by adults in our community. Here’s why.

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Prevalence of low literacy

Approximately 1 in 7 adults in Wisconsin struggles with basic literacy skills. This statistic highlights a significant portion of the population who face daily challenges in reading, writing, and comprehension. For these individuals, everyday tasks such as filling out job applications, reading instructions, or understanding healthcare materials can be overwhelming.

Impact on Employment

The data shows that adults with low literacy levels are at a disadvantage in the job market. Many lack a high school diploma or equivalent, which is often a basic requirement for employment. This lack of education not only limits job opportunities but also correlates with higher unemployment rates and lower earnings. Adults with limited literacy skills may find themselves trapped in low-wage positions, unable to pursue career advancement or access better-paying jobs.

 

Economic implications

Low literacy levels have broader economic consequences. The U.S. Department of Education states that individuals with lower literacy are more likely to rely on social services and face barriers to economic mobility. This reliance can strain community resources and reduce overall economic growth. Conversely, improving literacy rates can lead to a more skilled workforce, increased productivity, and ultimately a healthier economy.

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Civic engagement

Literacy is fundamental to active participation in civic life. Adults with low literacy skills may struggle to understand voting materials, local government documents, or community resources. This disengagement can lead to lower voter turnout and a lack of involvement in community issues, perpetuating cycles of inequality.

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Intergenerational impact

Literacy challenges can also have intergenerational effects. Parents with low literacy skills may struggle to support their children's education, leading to a cycle of low educational attainment. By addressing adult literacy, we can break this cycle and empower families, creating a lasting impact on future generations.

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Our commitment

At Fox Valley Literacy, we understand the profound implications of these statistics. Our free classes and tutoring programs are designed to equip adult learners with essential skills that open doors to new opportunities. By focusing on English, General Education, Civics & Citizenship, and Individual Projects, we are not just improving individual lives; we are enhancing community well-being.

 

Join us!

To combat these challenges, we rely on the support of our volunteers, donors, and partners. Together, we can create pathways for adult learners to achieve their goals and contribute positively to our community. Improving literacy strengthens not just individuals but the fabric of our entire society.

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Hablamos Español • Peb hais lus Hmoob • Tunaongea Kiswahili • Nous parlons Français • 我们说普通话​​​ ​​