What you can do - The International Literacy Network (ILN)

Literacy offers freedom for a lifetime of opportunities. Find out what you can do to help others!

What can I do to help others?

As a volunteer?
Volunteering opportunities are available for people of all ages. The National Literacy Database (www.literacydirectory.org) provides a link to local literacy programs throughout the US.

Reading is Fundamental (www.rif.org) can help you organize and run a program for children and parents in your school, business, or community.

If you are a student, approach your school district about peer tutoring programs in your community. Also, check your local library for details on where you can work on teaching English or basic skills locally and overseas!

As a parent?
The following websites provide great educational activities:

These same sites provide great ideas for teachers.

As a teacher or librarian?
Teaching professional development in the US and overseas is a major focus of the International Reading Association (www.reading.org).

The Department of Education (http://www.ed.gov/offices/OVAE/nahs/profdev.html) also has multiple options.

American Library Association (www.ala.org) has an active professional development and outreach program.

Keep up with the latest literacy research by consulting any of the ILN member sites.

As a businessperson?
Businesspeople can take an active role by starting their own literacy program (see volunteer section).

The National Institute for Literacy (http://www.nifl.gov/newworld/present.htm) has prepared a package for presentations at the workplace or to civic groups.

You can also contact your state school-to-work director (http://www.stw.ed.gov/general/general.htm) to find out how you can help young people get ready for the workplace.

Sources: National Adult Literacy Survey, National Center for Education Statistics, International Reading Association, UNESCO World Education Report 2000, UNICEF State of the World's Children 2000

Download Printable version of:
- ILN's What You Can Do? (MS Word Doc: 32K)