We empower adults with the foundational reading, math, digital and life skills needed to succeed in today's workforce and beyond — tailored instruction that builds confidence, supports job readiness and prepares learners for meaningful work, lifelong learning and greater independence.
The Washington Literacy Center is a DC nonprofit that has taught adults to read, write, count and navigate the modern workplace since 1963. Our learners are adults historically underserved by traditional education — many from Wards 7 and 8, many unemployed or underemployed, many returning citizens — and we meet them where they are.
Small-group instruction, CASAS-assessed progress, industry certifications, and a staff that stays with each learner from the first class to the first job. Established in 1963; a 501(c)(3) since 1965 (EIN 52-6063003).
Every course is free to the learner, assessed with CASAS, and built to hand off into the next one — or into a job.
Phonemic awareness, decoding, vocabulary. For beginner readers, ESL and ABE students.
Vocabulary, grammar and comprehension — preparation for GED and job training.
Fractions, decimals, percentages, budgeting and workplace numeracy.
CCR Standards and CASAS GOALS, with certifications: OSHA 10, CPR/First Aid, ServSafe Food Handler, Northstar Digital Literacy.
Google and Microsoft tools, email etiquette, Zoom and Teams, online safety. NorthStar certifications.
Math, science, social studies and language arts through Essential Education's GED Academy, with tutoring.
Adult basic education, digital literacy, career readiness and personal development in one cohort — formerly JumpStart 2 Success.
GED preparation and testing, English as a second language, family literacy and workforce training — ask the office which session fits.
Health-care navigation fairs with Wellpoint DC and Medical Ascension; health literacy folded into reading sessions.
A bartender-training scholarship with Diageo and The Professional Bartending School: life skills, financial fitness and employability alongside the craft, finishing with TAM certification. Fifty-one graduates walked at the September 30, 2026 ceremony from Cohorts 12–14.
Reach has doubled in the past five years: more than 200 adult learners served annually. Source: WLC "Figures and Facts" and the report "Bridging the Literacy Divide".
Online through Pledge, by mail, by phone at (202) 984-0004, or by text — WASHLIT to 707070. Matching gifts, donor-advised funds, crypto and planned giving are all welcome.
Learning Skills for Life and Pathways to Purpose run on sponsorships. Partners include Diageo, Events DC, Breakthru Beverage Group, Comcast Lift Zones, Amazon and Wellpoint DC.
Talk to developmentVolunteer positions are currently full. Leave your name with the office and you will hear from the volunteer coordinator when a seat opens — and in the meantime, a gift keeps a learner in class.
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