National stats around low literacy in the U.S.
America’s Literacy Crisis – And How You Can Help
The Hard Truth:
43 million U.S. adults struggle with basic reading
1 in 3 fourth graders reads below grade level
Low literacy costs our economy $225 billion annually
At The Literacy Project of North Idaho, we're tackling this crisis one learner at a time – and we need you.
Don’t worry about sounding professional. Sounds like you. There are over 1.5 billion websites out there, but your story is what’s going to separate this one from the rest. If you read the words back and don’t hear your own voice in your head, that’s a good sign you still have more work to do.
Be clear, be confident, and don’t overthink it. The beauty of your story is that it’s going to continue to evolve, and your site can evolve with it. Your goal should be to make it feel right for right now. Later will take care of itself. It always does.
The State of Literacy in America
Who's Affected?
🔢 21% of adults (1 in 5) can't compare/contrast written information (PIAAC)
📚 26.5 million Americans read below an elementary level
👨👩👧👦 Children of low-literate parents are 72% more likely to struggle in school
The Consequences
💼 Workforce: Low-literate workers earn 35% less
🏥 Health: Patients with low literacy have 50% higher hospitalization rates
🏛 Society: 65% of inmates have low literacy skills (U.S. DOJ)
You Can Change These Statistics
Just 1-2 hours per week as a volunteer tutor helps:
✅ Adults read prescriptions, job applications, and bedtime stories to their kids
✅ Children develop critical early literacy skills
✅ Break the cycle of intergenerational illiteracy
No teaching experience? No problem! We provide:
✏️ Free training
📋 Structured lesson plans
🤝 Ongoing support from literacy experts
Join Our Volunteer Team Today
3 Easy Ways to Get Started:
1️⃣ Attend a 30-minute info session (Online or in-person)
2️⃣ Complete our fun, interactive training
3️⃣ Get matched with a learner who fits your schedule
SIGN UP TO VOLUNTEER
or call (208) 450-2669 to learn more
