Technology has reshaped how nonprofits deliver education and support. Virtual classrooms and digital tools have opened doors that once seemed locked, yet each new tool brings new challenges. For adult learners, educators, and nonprofit administrators, technology can be both an enabler and a barrier.
On Friday, November 7th, First Literacy hosted the Spotlight on Innovation in Adult Basic Education. The annual event featured innovative new programs that are sparking change, testing fresh approaches, and opening doors for adult learners who are working hard to build better futures.
Each year, the topic of children’s summer regression pops up in the news, but we often don’t associate it with adult learners, though the effect of starting and stopping learning is just as detrimental. For many adult learners, continuing studies over the summer is not a possibility, but for the adult learners participating in three of First Literacy’s grant funded programs, summer was a time to get ahead.
Literacy impacts and is correlated with several important outcomes such as personal income, employment levels, health, and overall economic growth. Despite the profound implications, adult basic education (ABE) programs are vastly underfunded, especially by government sources.
First Literacy recently announced their 2025-2026 grant recipients. Eight organizations were awarded grants to carry out innovative initiatives that will impact adult learners across Massachusetts. In total, $38,523 in grant funds were distributed to nonprofits with new and innovative Adult Basic Education or English Language Learning projects.
According to ProLiteracy and other organizations, 75% of those in prison lack a fourth grade reading level. This contrasts with the general population, where one in six Americans lack a fourth grade reading level. Clearly there is a connection between low literacy levels and those who are incarcerated.
Sign Up to Receive First Literacy Emails
