Washington Literacy Center

08/25/2026

The Washington Literacy Center is remembering Dolly Parton today, a true champion of literacy and a friend to every child and family who ever needed a reason to believe a book could change their life.

For 30 years, her Imagination Library has delivered free, age-appropriate books to children from birth to age five, with more than 300 million books gifted since it began, with roughly 3 million more mailed out every month, all because she believed no child should be left without one simply because of their family's income.

She taught them young. At WLC, we're here for the adults who missed that early chance, serving residents across the District, especially East of the River, and Wards 4 and 5, who are building the literacy skills that open doors to better jobs, stability, and a brighter future.

Thank you, Dolly, for a lifetime of generosity and for showing us all what it looks like to put your heart into your work. Your legacy will live on in every child who opens one of your books.

08/24/2026

You don’t have to be great to start, but you have to start to be great. Start here at the Washington Literacy Center! Adult literacy changes more than one life. It impacts families, workplaces, and entire communities.

08/17/2026

Literacy changes more than one life. It impacts families, workplaces, and entire communities.

Adults are learning every day, and it is never too late to start.
We are proud to support our students every step of the way.

If you or someone you know wants to improve adult basic education skills, here are three simple steps:
1. 📖 Start with one goal.
2. ✍️ Practice a little each day.
3. 🤝 Get support from people who believe in you.

Your next chapter can start with one decision.
Comment “GET LIT” to receive more information about class registration. 🔥📚

08/07/2026

"Literacy is a bridge from misery to hope." Help us build that bridge. Donate at washlit.org/donate

08/05/2026

The Washington Literacy Center is committed to empowering adult learners with the tools they need to build brighter futures—but we can't do it alone.

❤️ You can make a difference. Your support helps provide life-changing literacy instruction, educational resources, and hope to those working toward a better tomorrow.

Donate today and help open the door to opportunity through literacy. Every gift, no matter the size, makes an impact. Help change lives at washlit.org/donate

08/03/2026

🎊We Celebrate Our Unstoppable Adult Learners!

🎓Caps off, credentials earned, and new goals reached! We celebrate the sheer grit, determination, and brilliance of our adult learners.

⚖️Balancing life, work, family, and studies is no small feat—but you did it. Look at what our community accomplished this year:

📖Reading Certification Earners: You’ve gained the necessary skills to move on to the next level.

🎉Learning Skills for Life Graduates: To everyone who just accomplished their goal. Mixology. Financial Skills. Workforce Development—your next adventure starts now!

👏🏽The entire team at WLC is so proud of all that you have done. Don't let this be the end. Live to Learn.

Be part of their change. Donate today or sign up as a monthly donor at washlit.org/donate

07/29/2026

Behind every adult learner is a story—and sometimes, all it takes is a little support to change how that story unfolds.

When you give through our website or become a monthly donor, you’re helping adult learners change their lives.

Monthly giving is one of the most powerful ways to make a lasting impact. It’s simple, steady, and truly life-changing.

Be part of something bigger. Donate today or sign up as a recurring donor on our website: washlit.org/donate

07/27/2026

The Washington Literacy Center (WLC) today announced that Nicol Turner Lee, Ph.D., has rejoined its Board of Directors, further strengthening our organization’s leadership as we work to expand adult literacy, digital skills, and workforce opportunities across the District of Columbia. Turner Lee previously served on the WLC board until her term ended in 2018 and returns at a moment when her research on artificial intelligence and digital access for low-income communities lines up closely with WLC's work. She is a leading AI and digital equity expert, and her work has focused on the intersection of technology, access, and social justice to advance more equitable technology access.

“We are honored that Nicole has chosen to invest her time and talent in the Washington Literacy Center,” said Jimmie Williams, President & CEO of WLC. “Her guidance will help us deepen our programs, build innovative collaborations with employers and public agencies, and secure new financial support so that more DC residents can gain the skills and confidence they need to succeed.”

07/24/2026

The Washington Literacy Center is committed to empowering adult learners with the tools they need to build brighter futures—but we can't do it alone.

❤️ You can make a difference. Your support helps provide life-changing literacy instruction, educational resources, and hope to those working toward a better tomorrow.

Donate today and help open the door to opportunity through literacy. Every gift, no matter the size, makes an impact. washlit.org/donate

07/20/2026

Our Learning Skills for Life(LSFL) program's recent graduates, Pei Shih Wong and Keven Cotton, shared their inspiring journeys on Fox 5 DC Live Zone Primetime with Chris Smith and Tony P.

From crafting creative cocktails and mocktails to sharing how showing up, working hard, and embracing new opportunities changed their lives, Keven and Pei Shih reminded us that growth begins with taking that first step.

Washington Literacy Center's Learning Skills for Life program equips adult learners with the technical, financial, and interpersonal skills needed to succeed in hospitality and other high-demand industries.

The program helps participants build confidence and develop practical workplace skills. It is delivered through a partnership between the Washington Literacy Center, NA (a beverage alcohol company), and Professional Bartending School.

You can help others like them own their future by supporting the Washington Literacy Center. Donate at washlit.org/donate

Our Learning Skills for Life(LSFL) program's recent graduates, Pei ...