MIDLAND The Permian Basin Adult Literacy Center celebrates annual adult education and family literacy week – Sept. 19-25 marks the annual Adult Education and Family Literacy Week, hosted by the National Coalition for Literacy.
This week exists to remind us all that reading, writing, and basic math remain an elusive target for 43 million adults nationwide, including as many as 25% of the adults in our community. Permian Basin Adult Literacy Center in Midland, is part of a national network of organizations that work to change lives and communities through the power of adult literacy.
According to ProLiteracy, the leading membership organization advancing the cause of adult literacy and basic education in the nation, more than 43 million adults in the U.S. cannot read, write, or do basic math above a third-grade level. ProLiteracy provides more than 1,000 adult education and literacy programs, including PBALC with tools to educate adult learners and help them meet the demands of today’s workforce.
“Here at home, in our own community, we know that between 15-24 % of adults do not have their High School Diploma, and an additional 34-45% speak a language other than English at home,” Alba Austin- Executive Director of PBALC, said. “Literacy helps families to be healthier and safer and provides opportunities for adults to support themselves through work, contributing ultimately to the economic growth of our region and our country. Here at PBALC, we also know that teaching parents and adults reading strategies increases a child’s language and literacy outcomes.”
“Low literacy costs the nation more than $2.2 trillion each year in lost productivity, as well as an additional $1-2 billion in health and safety issues,” Kevin Morgan, president and CEO of ProLiteracy, said. “Every dollar spent on adult literacy and education provides returns to the country through higher employment, added tax revenues, reduced welfare payments, and less crime.”
In recognition of Adult Education and Family Literacy Week, PBALC has planned various activities, including our Readathon Fundraiser and Silent Auction ending today.
For more information, visit pbalc.org.
