Literacy Connects

Literacy Connects' mission is Connecting People of All Ages to a World of Opportunities through Literacy and Creative Expression. We value: -Equity & Social Justice require that everyone has the equal opportunity to participate, learn and contribute -Creativity and Imagination are at the core of innovation and deep learning -Collaborative Relationships are key to our success -Joy nourishes our lives and shows us what is possible -Transformative Learning opens doors to personal potential

Literacy Connects is the premier literacy hub in Southern Arizona, providing transformational learning through student-centered relationships and a strength-based approach.

We serve learners across five programs: Reading Seed, Stories that Soar!, Adult Basic Literacy, English Language Acquisition for Adults, and Reach Out and Read. Our commitment to access and equity drives us to connect individuals across the community to work together for long-term social impact. We firmly believe that everyone deserves access to literacy and learning, and our classes are open to all, regardless of background and level.

Our Roots:

In 2007, community leaders met at a Tucson Regional Town Hall to discuss the critical issues facing our region. This group identified increasing literacy levels as the single best way to ensure a prosperous economy and an improved quality of life for everyone in Tucson. Following the Town Hall, a diverse coalition continued the discussion. Then, in July 2011, five local organizations merged to become Literacy Connects.

Testimonials

Reading Seed

"Reading Seed has been a game-changer. I see my students much more excited in reading. Also, seeing people from the community show up every week to coach, it makes you feel good to know that there are still people that care about public education, want the best for kids, and are willing to show up." - Kindergarten teacher participant in Reading Seed program

"I've observed Frankie feel more confident about his reading. Before he would give up even before he saw the assignment. He felt uneasy and almost scared to try. Since he has been in Reading Seed, he is much more confident in class, and more easily takes risks. When I work with him in small group, he is ready to chunk words and try! I am so impressed with his growth." - Reading Seed coach

"If you are a parent that is involved, this a great program to give reassurance that you are doing the right thing. If you're a parent that wants to get more involved in your kids learning because you lack the knowledge of what needs to be done, this program will give you the ideas to get going in the right direction. " - Reading Seed Families parent

Stories that Soar!

"Someday these kids are going to grow up to be amazing writers and have big performances of their work. People should get involved to give little kids the inspiration to do great and amazing things. Being part of the actors makes me feel super excited because now I can give the kids the same experience I had." - High-School student participant in STS! High program

"Thank you Literacy Connects for making everyone feel welcome, including me. If it wasn't for you guys, I would've never been able to show my creativity. From the very, very bottom of my heart I want to say thank you..." -Middle-school student participant in STS! after-school youth program

"Stories that Soar! worked to unify our community during these trying times. The students were able to have a common, shared experience, despite being remote! Thank you!" - Teacher at Stories that Soar! outreach school

Adult Basic Literacy

"As a wife and mother of four, it was difficult and it never stopped me from getting my diploma. With the help of Literacy Connects, I am proud to finish my GED and want to show people like me and my children that we can always fulfill our dreams and goals." - GED recipient in Adult Basic Literacy program

"I am grateful to all my teachers who put in the extra hours for me. I wouldn't be receiving my GED today without them, and because of that I also got an amazing job opportunity." - GED recipient in Adult Basic Literacy program

"Thanks to Literacy Connects today I am able to go to college. Muchas gracias a todos por su guan servicio a la comumidad." - Spanish GED recipient in Adult Basic Literacy program

English Language Acquisition for Adults

"The teachers saw my force, my potential. I couldn't see it, but they did,. Four years ago, I couldn't speak English and now I am here. And it's because I work hard, and never give up. I keep learning something new every day, I am proud of myself, and I want to help others. And Literacy Connects is always here." - student originally from Mexico, currently in advanced English classes and is also volunteer at Literacy Connects

"I had an interview and I was able to answer very well...