Ready to read
Literacy coalition looks to second year

Published: September 10, 2007

ONE year ago, a group of determined Oklahomans united to get metro-area residents reading. The concern was — and still is — that too many of those living among us can't read well enough to fill out a job application, complete medical forms or even understand road signs.

Statistics put the number of functionally illiterate Oklahomans at around 137,000. Many are poor and their inability to read well is a barrier to escaping poverty. The Oklahoma City Metro Literacy Coalition formed with a vision of providing support to literacy programs, decreasing the number of illiterate Oklahomans in part by connecting the literacy services already available, identifying gaps and reaching more of those in need.

A literacy consultant is reviewing the work of eight local task forces to compile a regional literacy plan. The search for an executive director is under way, as is the hunt for those willing to serve on the coalition's board. The coalition also needs more funding to continue its work.

As we noted a year ago, the problem of illiteracy in the metro area and throughout the state is complex and a targeted effort is needed to maximize scarce financial resources. Other groups, including Smart Start Central Oklahoma, are aiming their efforts at young children so it makes sense that other literacy providers focus on adults or even a narrower group like high school dropouts.

Despite the challenges ahead, the coalition and its founding organizers (Community Literacy Centers, Junior League of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma City Community Foundation, RSVP: Retired Senior Volunteer Program and the United Way of Central Oklahoma) deserve kudos for tackling such an important problem. We look forward to the unveiling of the literacy plan and encourage local businesses and community leaders to consider how they can play a role in reducing illiteracy. For more information, call Mary Surbeck with the Oklahoma City Community Foundation at 235-5603.

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