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International Literacy Day, founded in 1966 by the United National Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), is meant to raise awareness around ongoing global literacy problems by bringing those issues down to the local community level. While many will likely remember an emphasis on reading in their early school years around this time, as adults it is often easy to forget that illiteracy continues to impact the lives of 32 million adults in the United States alone, (approx. 750 million globally), who are considered functionally illiterate₁.

This year, the MICPA reminds its members that this is an area in which they can be a force for change and make a difference. Here are three ways to raise awareness and impact the quality of life for those struggling with literacy this year:

1. Volunteer. Advancing reading skills should start early, as children reading below grade level by fourth grade are four times less likely to graduate from high school on time₂. Impact the lives of children in your area by finding ways to volunteer as a tutor in your community. Contact your local school district or check out nonprofit organizations like Reading Partners for tips on how to get started.
2. Donate. The theme for this year’s International Literacy Day is bridging the digital divide, making reading more accessible to those struggling with literacy worldwide. The World Literacy Foundation is focused on students impacted by school closures during the pandemic, specifically those from families with limited access to books, technology and the internet. If you don’t have time to give this year, donating to a literacy cause is the next best thing.
3. Participate. On Sept. 8 – 9, UNESCO will host its National Literacy Day conference, exploring how literacy contributes to building the foundation for a human-centered recovery. Members can register and follow the event live from UNESCOs website. Join their celebration to learn more about the areas in which individuals can make the most impact and to gain insight into other ways you can make a difference! 

Are you a leader of a book club or a volunteer tutor? Let us know how you’re making a difference or how others can do the same this International Literacy Day by tagging us on Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter!