Adult Education and Family Literacy Week
In the aftermath of major federal budget cuts, adult education programs nationwide are under serious strain. As we prepare to celebrate Adult Education and Family Literacy Week during the third week of September, many family literacy and adult education services are scaling back or shutting down entirely at a time when demand remains high. Vulnerable populations, such as those with limited literacy and Limited English Proficiency (LEP), depend on these services to navigate work, healthcare, and daily life. With these devastating setbacks, the need for public engagement and advocacy is more urgent than ever.
These adult and family literacy programs directly impact not only individual learners but entire households.
When adults improve their ability to read, communicate effectively, and navigate the systems around them, they are better equipped to secure employment and manage daily responsibilities. Without the key skills that these programs provide, individuals are often limited to low-paying, unstable employment with little to no opportunity for advancement. They may struggle to advocate for themselves or their families, understand healthcare information, or assist their children with schoolwork.
Educational advancement opens doors, leading to stronger employment prospects, greater independence, and improved well-being.
Family literacy programs also play a pivotal role in long-term educational outcomes, offering a two-generation approach that strengthens the home environment for learning. Parents become more confident in their ability to help their children, and children are more likely to thrive academically. Research shows that children whose families are engaged in early education and family literacy activities tend to perform better on standardized tests, setting the stage for long-term educational achievement. Ensuring access to these programs helps break cycles of illiteracy, low-wage work, and poverty.
The same budget cuts that are putting adult education programs at risk are also threatening a wide range of other vital services. Summer and after-school programs, English language instruction, professional development for teachers, and student support services are all at risk. These programs often serve overlapping populations and work together to create more equitable educational outcomes. When one is undermined, the ripple effects can be widespread. Advocating for adult education means defending the larger network of programs that help individuals and families build better futures.
With all of this in mind, you may be wondering how you can make a difference. There are several meaningful ways to take action:
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Donate time or resources
Even small contributions can help adult and family education programs purchase much-needed materials such as textbooks, software licenses, transportation vouchers, and more.
If you’re unable to donate monetarily, consider volunteering. Your time as a tutor or support staff can go a long way toward expanding programs and the services they can offer. -
Contact your elected officials
If you want to make a difference but don’t have time or money to spare, reach out to your representatives and let them know that these programs matter and deserve continued funding.
Personalized letters, emails, or even a quick phone call can send a clear message: continued investment in adult and family education is a priority. -
Raise awareness online
Use your social media platforms to amplify the conversation. Organizations like the National Coalition for Literacy, ProLiteracy, and scaleLIT provide ready-made resources to help spread the word. Sharing their posts, attending local events, or even starting a conversation online can help build momentum.
While the challenges facing this field are significant, so is the potential for impact. Whether through time, advocacy, or conversation, your involvement helps ensure these opportunities remain available. Every effort, no matter how small, contributes to a stronger, more equitable future.
Sarah Catalfu, Literacy Coordinator, Adult Volunteer Literacy program
