Tutor and Learner

Become a Corporate Sponsor

Literacy DuPage is a 501(c)(3) non-profit committed to enhancing adult literacy skills through customized ESL (English as a Second Language) and ABE (Adult Basic Education) tutoring. We believe in the transformative power of literacy and its ability to open doors to improved personal well-being, better employment opportunities, and active community participation.

The demand for ESL programs has surged, reflecting the growing number of non-native English speakers striving to integrate fully into our society.

Download our Corporate Sponsorship Packet

Who needs assistance?

According to the 2022 American Community Survey, the population of DuPage County is 907,127 and includes:

  • 53,162 adults who do not have a high school diploma.

  • 70,756 residents living in poverty (poverty threshold for a family of four is $31,200).

  • 250,805 residents that speak a language other than English at home and 87,614 speak English “less than well”.

Additionally, children of parents with low literacy skills have a 72% chance of achieving only the lowest level of literacy when they become adults, creating a cycle of illiteracy and poverty that can span generations.

What is Low Literacy?

Low literacy is defined as being unable to read, write, speak, compare and contrast, paraphrase, and make low-level inferences. All skills necessary to navigate life and complete daily tasks.

Literacy DuPage provides free customized one-to-one tutoring designed to help adult learners advance beyond low literacy and reach their life skill goals.

Life skill goals adult learners are working towards include reading, writing, speaking, listening, navigating information online, enhancing employment skills, going to the doctor, talking to their child's teachers, improving job skills, getting a library card, applying for a job or promotion, communicating with supervisor or co-workers, reading to their children or helping them with homework, learning how to call 911, and many more!

Your sponsorship will support:

  • Program Development and Expansion - Enhancing our curriculum and expanding our reach to underserved communities.

  • Tutor Training and Resources - Ensuring our volunteer tutors are well-equipped with the latest teaching methodologies and materials.

  • Learner Services - Providing learning materials, transportation and childcare assistance, and access to technology for our students.

You will make a difference!

By partnering with Literacy DuPage, your organization will not only help transform lives but also demonstrate a commitment to corporate social responsibility and community development.

Your support will be prominently acknowledged in our marketing materials, social media channels, and at our community events, ensuring visibility and recognition for your generous contribution.

Download our Corporate Sponsorship Packet

When communities work to improve low literacy, it leads to:

  • Increased individual and family income.

  • Lower unemployment.

  • Improved health conditions.

  • Decreased incarceration rates.

  • Reduced public assistance need.

Who are our Learners?

Learners come to us with English language skills below ninth-grade level. Some are native English speakers, yet most are immigrants.

  • Our learner base represents 29 different native languages and 40 countries.

  • The average age of our learner is 43.

  • 49% are seeking employment or are underemployed.

  • 79% are female.

  • 51% are parents of minor children.

60% of Literacy DuPage adult learners have some post-secondary education in their native language. However, many are unable to find careers in their fields of study due to their lack of English skills.

Thank you for considering this opportunity to make a meaningful impact in our community.

If you have additional questions or would like to become a sponsor, please contact Kristin Chmiel, Executive Director, at [email protected] or 630-384-9340.