Literacy Missions

Each one Teach One

Begun in 1987 by the Birmingham Baptist Association, the literacy ministry (now based at M-POWER Ministries) meets the needs of individuals for basic reading skills. Our instructors, certified by ProLiteracy Worldwide, train volunteers for one-on-one tutoring. Founder Frank C. Laubach said, "Literacy is indeed one of the finest openings ever given the church through which she may bless the whole human race and pour the love of Christ into human society." In any given week, 200 volunteers are meeting with their students in churches and libraries across Jefferson County.

Joining our effort with the Literacy Council of Central Alabama, we receive referrals of individuals who need to improve reading skills. Some of those include people without transportation, children who struggle in school, teens who are in difficult situations, and people with learning disabilities. While these situations seem impossible, we know God can provide a solution to each one. You can be part of that solution by becoming a part of this ministry. You can also pray for those who wait for someone to show Christ love to them through literacy.

Why have a Literacy Ministry?

One out of four Alabamians is cannot read well enough to complete a job application, use public transportation, or read the newspaper or the Bible. This includes over 180,000 people in Jefferson Co.
13,000 students drop out of high school every year, resulting in a lack of skilled workers for available jobs.
60% of adults incarcerated in Alabama have less than a high school education and the average reading level is below sixth grade.
Children whose parents cannot read are twice as likely as their peers to fail in school.

What can you do through a literacy ministry?

Make it possible for someone to earn a higher income.
Prevent someone from going to jail
Teach an individual to read the Bible for the first time.
Build relationships with people who normally would not visit your church.
Introduce a person to Jesus Christ.
Grow in your relationship with God.

How can you be part of a literacy ministry?

Train to teach someone to read.
Refer someone you know who needs help with reading to this program.
Provide space for teachers and students to meet.
Provide transportation or child care for students.
Be a prayer partner for a teacher.
Partner with other churches to form a regional literacy center
Donate money for materials for teachers and students who cannot afford them.

How can we help you get involved in Literacy?

Provide training for volunteers.
Provide students to teach.
Provide materials and resources for teaching.
Provide a network with community literacy providers and agencies needing volunteers.
Assist your church in becoming a literacy center in your community.

Training Opportunities

Workshops scheduled at M-Power Ministries, 4022 4th Avenue South, 35222

Additional workshops can be scheduled at your church. Minimum 15 per group.
Cost for materials $45.00. All four sessions must be completed for certification.

Click here to find out about scheduled literacy training workshops.