Who We Are.
Established in 1983 as an adult educational nonprofit, the Literacy Council of the Ouachitas offers one-on-one and small group tutoring.
We value literacy as a basic human need. We value respect as a tool for fostering growth, increasing accessibility and collaboration to ensure an inclusive learning environment.
Our Vision is to remove barriers and provide support in relentless pursuit of a literate community.
Supporting individuals by building multi faceted literacy skills is our Mission
We are a partner of the United Way of the Ouachitas, members of ProLiteracy, and the Adult Learning Alliance of Arkansas.
Do you want to learn to read, write or improve your math skills?
Our free programs are here to help.
Throughout the region, between 20-26% of adults struggle with low literacy. These adults read below a 3rd grade level, and that has a profound impact on the health, safety, and economy of our communities.
Some of these adults may not be able to read directions on a prescription bottle or help their child with homework.
Percentage of low literacy in our region.
Engage with the us through our programs, volunteering, or support.
VOLUNTEER
Our mission relies on volunteers. Some volunteers tutor, some help with other needs.
At The Literacy Council of the Ouachitas, diversity, equity, and inclusion are at the core of our mission and vision. We remain committed to racial and ethnic equity in our community. Through literacy, we can have a community that welcomes everyone.
In May of 2021, Rolanda “Ro ” came into the The Literacy Council office to enroll in the weekly Tech Tuesday computer class. She explained that she was a skilled cake decorator who wanted to get back to work in that field after moving too Hot Springs. “It is a dream come true! I couldn’t have gotten here if it weren’t for your class. I am so grateful. I tell everyone who says they are having a hard time with computers about your class!".
-Rolanda
Eloisa has been making piñatas for 30 years. Those piñatas have been sold in Oaxaca, Veracruz, and Chihuahua in Mexico. Now she is making them in Hot Springs, she has been learning English as a Second Language at the Literacy Council of Garland County. Her amazing tutor is Claudia Jones who is a retired English teacher. They meet twice a week at 119 Hobson Avenue to practice her new language.
-Eloisa
Bai first came to the Literacy Council of Garland County in 2015 looking for help with her knowledge of English as a second language. Her lack of knowledge of English grammar, especially reading and writing, made her self-conscious and prevented her from pursuing her goal of admittance to National Park College. Today, Bai has successfully completed the National Park College admission process and intends to enroll for the spring semester.
-Baiyin Lin-Mros
Our Partners.
