Mission
Changing lives by strengthening literacy statewide.
Vision
All people in Wisconsin have the literacy skills to reach their full potential.
About Us
We support member literacy agencies statewide and advocate for more resources throughout the field of literacy. Our Wisconsin Health Literacy (WHL) division provides health literacy programming in communities throughout the state.
We provide:
- Capacity building
- Literacy program support
- Health literacy workshops
- Trainings
- Workforce support
- Advocacy
Our literacy support reaches 88% of Wisconsin counties through service to local literacy members.
We partner with:
- DPI (Department of Public Instruction)
- DCF (Department of Children and Families)
- DHS (Department of Health Services)
- DOC (Department of Corrections)
- DWD (Department of Workforce Development)
- and numerous healthcare organizations
These partnerships help streamline services and better prepare adult learners to advance their education, health and careers.
History
In 1985, we began as a volunteer coalition passionate about adult, family, and workplace literacy. Volunteers supported each other through information sharing, advocacy, resources and training.
In 1992, we invited community-based adult, family and workplace literacy programs to join as members.
In 2003, membership grew to 36 literacy programs statewide and we hired the first paid staff member – an Executive Director.
In 2006, we hired 4 regional literacy consultants to build member capacity throughout the state.
In 2010, we created the Wisconsin Health Literacy division to establish critical partnerships between health care and literacy.
In 2013, we started the easier-to-read prescription label project which later included 5 participating pilot pharmacies.
In 2019, we served 72 literacy programs in 79% of Wisconsin counties, made 4 million easier-to-read prescription labels, and our members provided instruction to more than 18,000 adults and children.
What We Do
Wisconsin Literacy is a nonprofit, statewide coalition of literacy agencies. We strengthen literacy statewide through expert trainings, personalized consultations, health literacy, workforce connections, and advocacy.
