MIDWEST CITY – The Oklahoma Department of Libraries awarded Literacy Link, Inc. a $ 9600 grant to support their local adult literacy efforts. The Oklahoma Legislators who represent Eastern Oklahoma County arean integral part in the funding for the longevity of this literacy program and those who support it.
Did you know that Oklahoma ranks 23rd in the United States with an illiteracy rate of 20.1%? This is not just a statistic; it is a call to action. Oklahoma County, OK, has a population (ages 16-74) of 553,740 according to the American Community Survey 2013-2018 five-year estimate. When compared to the state of Oklahoma:Literacy: Average scale score estimate has no notable difference. The percentage of 23% at or below Level 1 isnotably higher. The percentage 32% at Level 2 is statistically lower. Individuals at these levels often face significant obstacles when trying to succeed in the workplace, community, and everyday life.
Literacy Link is a volunteer-based program that provides free literacy instruction to adults who want to improve their reading, writing, comprehension, and English skills. Learners collaborate one-on-one with a trained tutor using a variety of materials and teaching methods. These funds will be used to support adult literacy in Eastern Oklahoma County.
According to Antonia E. Walker, Program Director of Literacy Link, “These funds are vital to our ability to offer quality literacy services to the cities of Midwest City, Del City, Nicoma Park, Spencer, Choctaw, Harrah, Jones, and Luther. And even though this is a volunteer program, any financial support is welcomed for the literacy programcommunity.”
The Literacy Development Office awarded grant funds. State funding appropriated by the Oklahoma Legislature, not only provides literacy grants to programs throughout the state, but provides ongoing technical assistance, training, and resources to support local adult literacy efforts.
If you want to learn more about this local literacy program as an adult student learner, or to find out how to be a volunteer tutor, contact Antonia E. Walker at405.732.2737 or email her at litlink@gmail.com. For information on statewide literacy efforts visit oklahoma.gov/libraries/literacy.html