BEDFORD – SOAR+ (Success and Opportunity at Reading—Plus Math, Financial and Digital Literacy), a not-for-profit organization dedicated to adult literacy, will host an Open House on Wednesday, June 25, from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at the Stone Gate Arts & Education Center. The event aims to raise awareness about the literacy needs of adults in Lawrence County and recruit volunteers to help address these challenges.
SOAR+ provides free, confidential, one-on-one tutoring to adults in Lawrence County who have not acquired basic reading and math skills. The program focuses on helping individuals build confidence and independence by mastering essential skills for everyday life, including reading signs, forms, managing bills, and using digital tools.
According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), approximately one in five adults in the U.S. – about 43 million people – have low literacy skills. This can lead to difficulties with simple texts, job applications, medication labels, and even civic participation. Low literacy can also impact employment opportunities, health outcomes, and parental support for children’s education.
SOAR+ relies on community members to help others achieve their reading and math goals, fostering self-sufficient community members. Contributions and grants from generous community partners fund the organization.
The benefits of improved adult literacy extend beyond the individual. Businesses gain workers with enhanced skills, leading to higher productivity and improved safety. Families benefit as parents can better understand information for childcare and home management, assist with schoolwork, and learn budgeting skills—the community as a whole benefits from fewer adults relying on public assistance and having better-informed citizens.
SOAR+ is seeking volunteers to become tutors. No prior experience is necessary, as comprehensive training, curriculum materials, and ongoing support are provided. Volunteers are asked to commit two hours per week to tutoring sessions. SOAR+ matches tutors with individuals in need based on skills, interests, and availability, offering help with reading, math, financial literacy, and digital literacy.
Community members interested in receiving tutoring, employers seeking to support an employee, individuals looking to volunteer, or those wishing to donate or sponsor an event are encouraged to attend the Open House or contact SOAR+.
Contact: Lawrence County Economic Growth Council 1116 16th Street Bedford, Indiana 47421 Phone: 812-275-4493 Email: cathy@lawrencecountygrowth.com.
