According to the latest statistics I could find, over 1 billion people in the world today cannot read. That means approximately 26 percent of the world's adult population is not able to read what I am writing.

Since writers crave to be read, it seems only appropriate for us to take an active role in helping more people learn to read.

National Volunteer Week is coming up April 27 through May 3 and what better time to get involved in something that will enrich the work we do? Some literary campaigns use the slogan, "Grow a reader" and I think that aptly describes the process of planting good seeds that will help others -- and their children -- throughout their lives.

So...I am hereby issuing a challenge to every person who reads this article: teach or help teach someone to read by the end of the year. Whether it's a family member or a stranger in town, there are ample opportunities to help wipe out illiteracy in our lifetime.

I think folks often have false assumptions about what kinds of people can't read. It might surprise you to know that, according to the National Education Association, 41% of adult not literate in English are English-speaking whites. And older people aren't the only group affected, because 40% of these adults are 29-39 years of age.

Illiteracy is a cycle. For example, a single mother who left school early will not able to help her child learn to read. If a child doesn't have early, constant access to books, newspapers and to a parent who can read, that child is going to have a tough time in school.

There are several organizations that need your help to turn such situations around. In addition to local Adult Basic Ed groups, community literacy programs and volunteer centers, there are some churches and social service organizations that offer learn to read programs.

If you're still having trouble finding a place to go to volunteer your services, try the following Web sites:

Literacy Volunteers of America, Inc.
LiteracyVolunteers.org

National Institute for Literacy (NIFL)
NIFL.gov

Think about it: one out of every five people you meet cannot fill out a job application, follow written instructions, read a newspaper or Web site, or even their child's homework.

Wouldn't it be great to help change that for someone? Take me up on my challenge and teach or help teach someone to read by the end of 2003. And write me and let me know your progress. I'll post ideas, students' progress, success stories, etc., here in future columns and maintain anonymity of everyone involved, if you desire. Let's go grow some readers!

About the author: Patricia Collier is a freelance writer and editor living in Jacksonville, Florida. An experienced content provider and editor for both print and online publications, Collier offers samples of her work at http://www.femscribe.com. She may be reached at patricia@femscribe.com.

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