Helping hands: How the community supports adult learners at Mid-State Literacy Council
Fall is in the air, and the back-to-school season is in full swing. It sparks images of kids with overstuffed backpacks, big yellow school buses, and college students flooding the streets. But a lesser-known population is also hitting the books this season — adult learners at Mid-State Literacy Council (MSLC). These dedicated individuals are improving their reading, writing, math, technology, and English communication skills, and MSLC staff, volunteers and community partners are here to support them every step of the way.
Adult learners at MSLC are pursuing a wide range of goals: from learning English, to preparing for the GED or military entrance exams, to navigating online health portals, to improving math for workplace promotions. Students are learning digital literacy skills to protect their private information, manage finances and communicate effectively in the workplace and beyond.
Recent efforts supported by generous community partners are making a tangible difference to reduce barriers for adults returning to the classroom. Updated math materials are now available to help students tackle real-world math problems, thanks to Centre County’s Council of Human Services. A year-long “tour” of the Centre County senior centers has supported cellphone skill building in collaboration with the Office of Aging, and Centre Foundation donors are investing in our expansion of digital literacy education to all ages (not just older adults). English language learners benefit from new initiatives such as “Conversations for Caregivers” funded by Women United, and “Know Your Rights” workshops with guidance from the Centre County Rapid Response Network.
No student is turned away from MSLC’s community education center. Scholarships and grant funds from Centre County United Way, AAUW, The Hamer Foundation, Global Connections, and individual donors reduce the financial burden on learners, supporting affordable education for all. The Downtown State College Rotary Club is funding GED practice tests and materials, while MSLC’s Transportation Drive helps learners overcome logistical hurdles on their path to success.
They say it takes a village, and we are grateful for ours!
Join us at one of our upcoming events this fall:
26th Annual Ron and Mary Maxwell Community Spelling Bee: Wednesday, Sept. 24 at 6 p.m. on Zoom, broadcast on C-NET. A fun and friendly competition, the Bee raises crucial funds for MSLC’s adult education programs. Watch the competition live at www.youtube.com/live/6L70VLh_XTs and play along from home!
Barnes & Noble Bookfair: Nov 21-23. This year’s theme, “Broadening Perspectives: Expand Your Mind, One Page at a Time,” celebrates curiosity and lifelong learning. Every book purchased during the fair supports MSLC programs and inspires exploration through reading.
Digital Literacy Workshops (sponsored by AARP):
“Is That AI?” – Sept. 23, 1 p.m., Centre County Library, Bellefonte
“Passwords, Passkeys, and More” – Oct. 20, 10:45 a.m., Centre Region Active Adult Center, State College
“AI and Disinformation” – Oct. 28, 1 p.m., St. Mark’s Lutheran Church, Howard
Volunteer as a teacher or tutor. MSLC’s one-to-one tutor pairs offer a unique, reciprocal learning experience where both student and tutor grow.
For more information about enrolling, volunteering, or donating, contact mslc@mid-stateliteracycouncil.org.
Bridget Schell is the executive director of Mid-State Literacy Council.