Literacy is using printed and written information to achieve personal goals, develop knowledge and build potential to better participate in society.
(National Assessment of Adult Literacy (NAAL) Survey 2003)Literacy is about:
- Dignity
- Voting
- Work
- Self-Advocacy (understanding your rights)
- Health
- Family
- Writing
- Personal expression
- Paying the bills
- Living
- A better life.
1 in 7
150,000 Maine adults, or 1 in 7 people, are functioning at the lowest level of literacy. For more statistics go to Quick Facts.One of the biggest obstacles facing literacy providers today is that most of us take for granted the ability to read and write.
How can improved literacy affect your community?
- Help our communities be healthier, and reduce individual, insurer, employer, and government health care costs;
- Advance the employability of Maine citizens;
- Increase the efficiency and profitability of Maine businesses, improve their sustainability, and attract businesses looking to come to Maine;
- Improve the quality of life for all Mainers.
Literacy is an issue that affects all of our communities, and it will take a community effort to make a difference. If you’d like to personally make a difference click here.
