Literacy Center seeks campaign help

The Literacy Center of West Michigan has raised more than $1.3 million in its Blueprint for Literacy campaign that was launched in the spring of 2009. The organization is now turning to the public to raise the additional funds needed to reach the campaign’s $1.5 million goal.

“In the heart of the Great Recession we were able to raise these funds but we’re not there yet,” said campaign co-chair Win Irwin in a news conference held Wednesday morning at the center’s new offices at 1120 Monroe Ave. NW. “As we work to turn around our economy, I am pleased to be part of the effort that builds critical skills for our work force. The Literacy Center is a proven leader in providing literacy services for our community and the entire West Michigan region. The Literacy Center helps develop work force talent. We can see an impact when the center’s students remain in West Michigan”

The fundraising effort is to help fund the center’s recent move to the Monroe Avenue site and to expand programming to meet an increased demand for literacy programs in the region.

Campaign co-chair Jackie Taylor noted the effort has received support from local and regional foundations, area businesses and community donors. “We have been so fortunate to receive gives to this important campaign in a very challenging economic environment. We welcome gifts of all sizes.”

Most recently, the campaign received a $600,000 grant from the Kellogg Foundation in support of expanded literacy efforts in the Grand Rapids Public Schools. Other major gifts have come from several sources, including the Grand Rapids Community Foundation, Steelcase Foundation and the Frey Foundation.

Founded in 1986 as the Kent County Literacy Council, the Literacy Center operates with a $1.2 million budget and a staff of 22, serving more than 1,400 clients each year — teaching reading, writing and language skills so local residents can find employment, pursue continuing education and complete governmental and medical forms, said Susan Ledy, the center’s director.