Why We Do What We Do

Did you know that 54% of U.S. adults read below the equivalent of a sixth-grade level, 64% of our country’s fourth graders do not read proficiently, and that 1 in 5 Americans read below the level needed to earn a living wage?

These numbers are reflected in Southwest Missouri's own literacy stats.

Here at the Ozarks Literacy Council, our mission is to boost literacy in our area by offering FREE reading literacy programs, including:

A FREE Reading Tutoring Program that provides a dedicated tutor for learners who sign up.
A Reading Resource Program (#bookit) that provides free books and classroom readers to elementary children in three local Springfield Public Schools.
A Preschool Reading Program that provides one free book every quarter with a volunteer reader to Wonder Years' preschoolers.

Your contribution goes toward supporting the programs listed above.

Not Sure How Much to Give?

No worries. Here's some ways your contribution can help:

$5 provides 1 learner 1 book to read and curriculum materials!
$15 provides 1 learner 3 books to read and curriculum materials OR pays for one tutor's background check!
$25 provides 1 learner 5 books to read and curriculum materials!
$60 provides 1 learner 1 book for every month of the year!

Giving monthly helps provide these materials, books, and other items throughout the year, so we can continue to support our volunteer tutors and learners.

Want to Volunteer Instead?

We are always looking for volunteer reading tutors to be matched with a waiting learner and help them learn to read or improve their reading. Check out the program and sign up here.

If you're interested in signing up for our other volunteer programs, you can find more information here.

Giving Tuesday 2025 - Help a Child or Adult Learn to Read or Read Better!

By Ozarks Literacy Council

Giving Tuesday 2025 - Help a Child or Adult Learn to Read or Read Better!

You can make a difference.

Team Members