About Us

Literacy Connections is a private, not-for-profit, 501(c)(3) organization committed to helping adults and families become functionally literate.  We work with the lowest literacy level adults in Dutchess, Columbia, Greene, and Orange Counties.

Literacy Connections was founded in 1975 as Literacy Volunteers of America – Dutchess County, Inc.  We changed our name to Literacy Connections in 2005.

Adult and Family Literacy Programs

Basic Readers – Adults who speak English

Our core program is to provide one-to-one or small group tutoring for adults who are functionally illiterate – reading below a 6th grade level.  We recruit and train volunteers to meet weekly with these adult learners and help them learn to read.

English Language Learners (ELL) – Adults who need to learn English

This program is for adults who are new speakers of English and want to improve their speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills.  Volunteers in this program teach in small groups at drop-in centers or meet one-to-one with learners.

Book Buddies, Classroom Buddies, and Math Buddies

This program matches adult volunteers with elementary school children who need additional support in reading or math to perform at grade level.  Volunteers and children work together one-to-one or in small groups during the school day.