Literacy for Life

Literacy for Life empowers adults by building foundational skills for success in life and work.

Since its launch at William & Mary in 1975, Literacy for Life has improved the lives of adult learners in Williamsburg through individualized instruction in reading, writing, math, and English language. In 2024, LFL added an office in Hampton and expanded its services throughout the Newport News and Hampton area.

Literacy for Life serves approximately 1000 adult learners each year, with assistance from about 300 volunteer tutors.

Literacy for Life trains and supports volunteer tutors, who provide one-to-one and small group instruction to adult learners. Volunteers make it possible for Literacy for Life to deliver flexible, individualized instruction.

Staff meet individually with tutors to select their learners based on their schedule and area of interest. Tutoring topics include reading, writing, math, computer skills, and English language (ESL). Tutors may also teach special topics such as health literacy, financial literacy, work skills, or preparation for workplace certification programs in fields such as health care or the trades.

Tutoring pairs or groups meet weekly at a mutually convenient time at the Literacy for Life offices or other public locations such as libraries or churches.

Literacy for Life staff provide training, resources, and ongoing support to tutors. Tutors do not need prior teaching experience or a second language. The most important requirements are commitment, willingness to learn, and a can-do attitude!  

Tutors consistently tell us that they learn more than they teach and receive more than they give. Literacy for Life strives to provide a life-enhancing experience to tutors and learners alike!