About the Literacy Council

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.