Dollar General is a staunch leader when it comes to literacy and education. They are to be applauded for their unending efforts in this endeavor. One reason why this is probably such a priority for them is because of Dollar General’s co-founder, J. L. Turner. When the company began Mr. Turner was considered to be functionally illiterate. Their belief is that literacy is a worthwhile investment that will lead to a productive and meaningful life.
Lysol, Airwick and Finish products are sponsors of Dollar General’s efforts. When you purchase items from these particular vendors, a portion goes for the literacy cause.
They have a variety of programs that meet needs of people of various ages and backgrounds.
Adult Literacy Grants
Grants are awarded to nonprofit agencies that render reading assistance and service to adults.
That help must be provided in one of the following instructional areas:
Adult basic education
GED preparation
ESL – English as a Second Language
Back to School Literacy Grants
This funding is given to help school libraries or media centers in successfully overcoming financial challenges. The following areas would include:
Starting new or expanding existing literacy programs
Purchasing new technology that enhances the literacy experience
Purchasing books, materials and other items for library programs
Beyond Words – The Dollar General School Library Relief Program
This program was initiated by the American Association of School Librarians. It assists public schools that were involved in catastrophic disasters. Grants are given for books and media supplies.
Family Literary Grants
Based upon Federal guidelines and criteria, this program consists of:
Adult Education Instruction
Children’s Education
Parent and Child Together (PACT)
Parenting Classes
Summer Reading Grants
Dollar General provides resources to local nonprofit agencies and libraries to help with developing or building upon already established programs. It is specifically aimed at Pre-K through 12th grade students who are new readers, below grade level readers, or those with a learning disability of some kind.
Youth Literacy Grants
Funding is provided to schools, public libraries and nonprofit groups to assist students below grade level and/or experiencing difficulty with reading.
How Can You Help?
Only when people get involved will the problem of literacy be conquered. Volunteering at one of their centers would be a great starting point. For detailed instructions and information on locations and other questions go to www.proliteracy.org
If this foundation is not necessarily a good fit for you there are many other reading avenues in which your help would most surely be welcome. You might want to consider going to a local school and reading to the students. You may be instrumental in them developing a love for reading.
I’m glad I have been blessed with the ability to read. It has taken me far in life. Sitting down with a good book is a pastime I treasure and look forward to. As the old saying goes, “Reading is Fundamental”.
