Adult Literacy Fact:
Technology increases the literacy requirements of every job and the skills of adult workers are becoming insufficient.

Success Stories

Bob’s Story
Bob came to the Whatcom Literacy council feeling discouraged about the English language. Placement and skills tests had been a guessing game for him. After barely passing English during his high school years, he joined the army. While stationed in Germany, he attempted to further his education in a satellite college. After one month, Bob gave up.

When he returned from his stint in the army, Bob decided to try computer accounting in business school, but with low grammar and writing skills, was unable to keep up. Again, he gave up. Someone told him about the Literacy Council. After a one-hour consultation and assessment of skill level, he was matched with a tutor. Side by side they began studying grammar and writing. Bob’s confidence grew.
"My attitude toward the English language had been one of dislike, confusion and down-right hatred. I didn’t even know what a sentence was. But now, I enjoy writing instead of fighting against it. It has become my friend through learning to understand it better…"

Bob is now successfully studying computer technology at Whatcom Community College in Bellingham, Washington, and has a published essay in the 1999 student publication, A Gathering of voices.