Our Mission

The Orange County Literacy Council’s vision is a community where literacy is availabel to all. Our mission is to help adults reach their education, employment and life goals.  We do this by providing free, flexible instruction in reading, writing and basic math, English and computer skills and GED preparation.

In Orange County alone, approximately 15% of the adult population is considered functionally illiterate.  Whether they are native English speakers or those learning English as a second, third or fourth language, they struggle with the reading, writing, math or technology skills necessary for everyday life.

The U.S. Department of Education reported that forty-three percent of those with low literacy skills live in poverty with an unemployment rate four to seven times that of people with high literacy skills. According to data released by the U.S. Census Bureau, workers without a high school diploma, or GED, earn .66 cents for every dollar earned by a high school graduate.