The Literacy Council of Frederick County offers adults the opportunity to gain reading and other English language skills in a learner-centered format with compassion, confidentiality and respect. The programs empower them to provide for their families and become more successful, productive and involved members of our community. 

Ausherman Family Foundation has supported The Literacy Council through General and Capacity Building Grants. In 2018, they were awarded a $30,000 matching general grant to build long-term organizational sustainability by utilizing funds for operating and program expenses. The matching funds component was used as an incentive to engage new donors, including business donors, with whom they will partner with to provide workplace English classes or recruit as program sponsors.

The Literacy Council provides workplace English programs for employees in several Downtown Frederick restaurants. This program has been very successful and is continuing to grow. They will target industries that fulfill business needs in Frederick County and employ lower literate workers such as hospitality, housecleaning, building cleaning and maintenance, health services, construction and landscaping. They also offer individual tutors to supplement the classroom learning.

New outreach efforts have been implemented to reach more families, especially those identified in United Way’s ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) Report. New collaborations include Frederick County Public Schools (FCPS) and The Judy Center enable the organization to reach parents of young children who need literacy services in several Title I schools. Improving parent literacy has a direct effect on school readiness and success.

For more information about General and Capacity Building Grants, click here.