Who we are: Working together to extend our reach.

Literacy For Adults Partnership was formed in 2006 when the desire for one-to-one literacy tutoring began to outpace the number of volunteers each partner could provide.

By combining our 25+ years of experience, Literacy Connection, Literacy DuPage, Literacy Volunteers Fox Valley and Literacy Volunteers Western Cook County are raising a greater awareness of the need for one-to-one tutoring and the mutually rewarding relationship that tutors can build with their adult learners.

As a result, hundreds of volunteer tutors are helping hundreds of adult learners become more independent and empowered members of our community. We would like to thank Grand Victoria Foundation and Taproot Foundation for their sponsorship of this partnership.

A century of literacy progress

1900's through 1950's

Internationally, Missionary Dr. Frank Laubauch develops early literacy programs and teaches students in the Philippines, Asia, India, Africa, the Middle East and Latin America. In 1955, he forms Laubach Literacy International to help adults and their families improve their lives through reading, writing, math and problem-solving skills.

1960's

In 1962, in New York, Ruth Johnson Colvin recognizes the need for improved, focused literacy efforts, and establishes Literacy Volunteers, Inc. In 1967, the organization's name changes to Literacy Volunteers of America. The number of volunteer literacy tutors in the U.S. continues to grow.

1970's through 1980’s

In 1974, the National Coalition for Literacy is founded to increase awareness and resources for literacy across the United States. In the northwest and western suburbs of Chicago, Illinois, four individual literacy organizations are incorporated with the support of community libraries:

1990's

Colvin creates literacy programs, workshops and videos for adults and children in the U.S. She also launches the first website and online campaign to increase literacy awareness. She travels abroad to establish literacy programs into the next decade.

2000's

In 2001, Literacy Volunteers of America and Laubach Literacy International merge to establish Proliteracy America. In 2006, the Literacy for Adults Partnership in Illinois forms when the desire for one-to-one literacy tutoring outpaces the number of volunteer tutors available. Partner agencies work together to promote literacy programs, reach and recruit tutors in four counties.