September is National Literacy Month. Illiteracy is still a problem, though we often think of it as a thing of the past. Be informed about illiteracy in America and worldwide, and discover ways to get involved.

Find out more and explore our recommended reading for this month today!

According to the U.S. Department of Education, 54% of U.S. adults aged 16-74—about 130 million people—lack proficiency in literacy, reading below the sixth-grade level.

• 43 million adults in the U.S. (or 21%) have low literacy skills, and read below the fifth-grade level.
• In the United States, 14% of adults cannot read; equal to 32 million people.
• 19% of high school graduates cannot read.
• 85% of youths who interact with the juvenile court system are considered functionally illiterate.
• 70% of inmates in American prisons cannot read above the fourth-grade level.

Illiteracy is not just confined to the borders of the United States. Worldwide, 774 million individuals cannot read. Of this group, 66% are women.

Recent statistics show that 1 in 4 children grow up not knowing how to read. Beyond this, 2/3 of students that are unable to read proficiently by the end of the 4th grade regularly end up in jail or dependent on government welfare. These individuals will also suffer a 78% chance of never catching up with their peers.

11 organizations that promote Literacy

Alpha Grand Rapids is our favorite of these organizations, due to its proximity and interaction with our community. We encourage you to get involved in the fight against illiteracy by seeking out organizations in your own community. Check them out: https://alphagrandrapids.org/