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.