The Literacy Connection

Program Overview

The Literacy Connection, an affiliate of ProLiteracy, is a non-profit, community-based 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to helping adults acquire fundamental literacy skills by teaching them to read, write, speak and understand English through one-on-one, group and workplace tutoring. Learners are provided tutoring services free of charge in sixteen northwest suburban Chicago communities: Algonquin, Bartlett, Carpentersville, Cary, Elgin, South Elgin, East Dundee, West Dundee, Gilberts, Hanover Park, Hampshire, Hoffman Estates, Huntley, Lake in the Hills, Streamwood, and Schaumburg. The Literacy Connection was organized in 1983. The agency is located on the second floor of the Gail Borden Public Library in Elgin, and serves nearly 300 adult learners each year.

Cost Info

Student and Volunteer Success Stories

Miriam, a 62 year old adult learner, says: "The key to learn is not the age, but the patience, dedication and a place like The Literacy Connection because of the conviction of their tutors to teach and help every student with every tool needed so they can achieve as many goals as they want."

Julio and Donna, parents of two young children, say: "We recommend this [Literacy Connection] program because it works." They say The Literacy Connection has motivated them to study English because they have met others there who are like them. Julio wants to study engineering and be a business owner, a goal he knows he can achieve with stronger English fluency.

Emilia, a hospital custodian, says: "My Literacy Connection tutor is kind. I feel more confident to continue learning English because the tutor works around my work schedule." Emilia has made major progress in her ability to communicate with others and plans to study to become a physical therapist.