The Literacy Council of Washington County, Maryland
About the Literacy Council
We provide free, one-on-one help for adults in Washington County, Maryland who want support with reading, writing, or English.
Who We Are
A Nonprofit Providing Free Adult Literacy Support Since 1986
Who We Are
Our Purpose is to ignite a passion for literacy in Washington County by offering free, personalized basic reading and writing instruction to those seeking to improve their skills, and empowering non-English speaking individuals to develop their conversation abilities.
Our Goals
To provide personalized, uplifting reading and writing instruction to residents of Washington County over 18 years old, from non-literate to semi-literate backgrounds.
To offer complimentary, individualized conversation skills, reading, and writing instruction to non-English speaking residents of Washington County over 18 years old, inspiring their journey toward communication.
To cultivate skilled Tutors who are over 18 years old, fluent in English, and ready to dedicate one to two hours each week to nurture a student’s growth, embracing patience, enthusiasm, dedication, flexibility, cultural sensitivity, and a heartfelt desire to make a difference in someone's life.
Our Journey
A Legacy of Adult Literacy Since 1986
Our History
In November 1986, a heartfelt gathering of passionate individuals came together to ignite a flame for literacy, founding what was once called the Northwest Central Literacy Council. With a vision to uplift our community, we focused on empowering adults with essential skills, particularly nurturing conversational English for those who had journeyed from afar. Though our office faced challenges and closed in the mid-90s, the spirit of literacy remained alive. A spark was reignited in 1996 when a devoted Hagerstown resident, having attended a Tutor Training Workshop in Frederick, realized the urgent need within Washington County. Through heartfelt conversations with caring tutor trainers, she felt inspired to resurrect the Hagerstown office. By January 1998, she and nine other enthusiastic souls gathered at the Hagerstown library, marking the beginning of our cherished journey as the Washington County Literacy Council.
Today, we reflect on the heartbreaking reality that nearly 20% of adults in our nation grapple with functional illiteracy, with 10% lacking a high school diploma, and 34% of the foreign-born struggling to find their voice in English. These barriers lead many to experience joblessness, poverty, and health struggles, casting shadows over their lives. Yet, the Literacy Council of Washington County stands as a beacon of hope, diligently working to mend these troubling statistics. With the unwavering dedication of our tutors, we strive to ensure a brighter future for these individuals, foster a skilled workforce, and uplift the economic prospects of our beloved county.
Mission & Values
Our Commitment to Literacy and Education
Our Mission
The Literacy Council of Washington County is dedicated to fostering literacy among adults in our community. We strive to provide free, individualized education, empowering individuals to improve their reading, writing, and conversation skills, thus enriching their lives and contributing to the local workforce.
Our Values
We value education as a fundamental right and believe in the transformative power of literacy. Our organization is committed to integrity, respect, collaboration, and community engagement, fostering an inclusive environment that supports personal growth and lifelong learning for all individuals in Washington County.
Meet Our Team
Dedicated Professionals and Volunteers
Wade Warren
Owner
Cameron Williamson
Co-Founder
Brooklyn Simmons
Marketing Manager
READY WHEN YOU ARE
Take the Next Step — We Help for Free
If you’re an adult who wants help with reading, writing, or English, you’re in the right place. If you’d like to volunteer or support adult learners, we’d love to hear from you.