If you know an adult who can't read this, Pottstown-based agency can help

Can you imagine not knowing how to read, or having a reading level that never went beyond the 3rd grade? Thirty million adults in the U.S. can.

Here in Pottstown, we have a wonderfully dedicated agency, the YWCA Tri-County Area, that teaches adult literacy, among other skills, to more than 300 people each year. The YWCA also trains volunteers to teach people who want to learn how to read.

The YWCA Tri-County Area in Pottstown is part of the ProLiteracy network of adult literacy and basic education organizations focused on improving adult literacy rates.

“As children and teens go back to school this year, it is the perfect time for adults in need of educational services to take this important step to simply ask for help,” said Jae Hively, director YWCA Tri-County Area Adult Literacy Program. “Our organization helps adults learn the English language, as well as increase their basic reading, writing and math skills in order to earn a GED, gain employment or transition to post secondary education or job training.”

ProLiteracy is one of the nation’s largest nonprofit organizations dedicated to advancing the cause of adult literacy and basic education. Make an online donation to ProLiteracy by clicking here.

“Being open to receiving literacy instruction can transform any life — including the life of an adult. Literacy at any age also has the power to transform families and whole communities,” said David C. Harvey, ProLiteracy president and CEO.

ProLiteracy advocates on behalf of adult learners and the programs that serve them, provides training and professional development, and publishes materials used in adult literacy and basic education instruction. ProLiteracy has 1,000 member programs in every state and the District of Columbia and works with 50 grassroots organization in more than 30 developing countries.

The YWCA Adult Literacy programs are governed and funded by the Bureau of Adult Basic Literacy Education, and currently rank 15 out of 128 adult literacy programs across Pennsylvania.

The YWCA Adult Literacy Program is located in the lower level at 1830 E. High St., Pottstown. Adult basic education classes, small learning groups, and one-on-one tutoring are available for adults in learning English, reading, writing, math, GED preparation, earning an adult high school diploma, and workplace essential skills.

To learn more, or if you are interested in becoming a volunteer tutor, call the literacy center at 610-326-READ (7323).

For more information about YWCA Tri-County Area, call the YWCA main office, 315 King St., Pottstown, at 610-323-1888. To learn how to make a donation to the YWCA Tri-County area, click here.

Book related fundraiser for YWCA to be held March 19

Among the many organizations in Pottstown that need your help is the YWCA Tri-County Area. This agency does wonderful things to help women and children in the Pottstown area who are in need.

• Their Adult Literacy Program includes GED tutoring and diploma assistance as well as organizng a network of trained volunteers to help women learn how to read and improve their prospects.


• Their Parents Network program support group allows parents to meet for one or two hours a week with a facilitator. The children's group that meets in conjunction gives kids some time to work on crafts and enjoy snacks while parents seek help.


• Their Women EXCEL group holds monthly breakfast meetings give professional women and businesses the opportunity to network, provide support and become aware of local commerce and trade. The group seeks to energize, empower and inspire women to reach their full potential.

Coming up March 19 is your chance to support the YW and have some fun at one of its major fundraisers of the year, this time with a book-related theme.

The YWCA Tri-County Area's 11th Annual Basket Party will be held on Friday, March 19, from 6 to 9 p.m. at North Coventry Elementary School, 475 Kemp Road, Pottstown.

The organization is currently accepting sponsorships as well as book-themed basket donations.

From 6 to 7:15 p.m., attendees can view and bid on themed baskets, purchase dinner from the buffet, bid on silent auction items and view live auction items. The basket raffle, door prizes and auctions will be held from 7:15 to 9 p.m.

Advanced tickets are $15 each or two for $25. Advanced table reservations (for eight people) are $100. Admission at the door is $20. Admission includes 10 raffle tickets. Additional tickets are available 10 for $15.

This year’s event is "All About Books." Basket donations with that theme in mind are being accepted. Choose a favorite book/story and build your basket around it. All basket contributors will receive 10 additional raffle tickets with their paid ticket. All baskets should be wrapped in cellophane with your name or company name, basket theme, and a list of contents. Deliver your basket to the YWCA no later than Monday, March 15. Basket pickup is available, call the YWCA at 610-323-1888 to make arrangements or for more information.

Sponsorship levels are also available. The gold level ($300) includes eight admission tickets, a reserved table and a full-page program ad. The silver level ($200) includes four admission tickets and a half-page program ad. The Bronze level ($100) includes two admission tickets and a business card program ad.

All proceeds to benefit YWCA Tri-County Area, which promotes the elimination or racism and the empowerment of women.

Above is their cute and colorful flyer, designed by Epps Advertising and printed by Complete Graphics.

Perhaps your business would like to become a sponsor and help out this tremendous organization. Or maybe you have some books lying around that you no longer need that you wouldn't mind donating to this cause. Plus, when you donate, you get an additional 10 raffle tickets with paid admission. It's worth combing the bookshelf for.

For more information about YWCA Tri-County Area, visit http://www.ywcatricountyarea.org/