The ability to read is something most of us take for granted. It is something we assume every adult is able to do, but that is not true for one in six adults in metro Richmond. Every important social issue is impacted by low literacy. The inability to read creates huge barriers for an adult trying to function in society. It impacts health, employment, housing and parenting. Illiteracy traps families in a cycle of poverty that is hard to break. The READ Center’s mission is to help adults with low-level literacy develop basic reading and communication skills so they can fulfill their goals and their roles as citizens, workers, and family members. This mission is accomplished by providing classroom instruction, one-to-one tutoring, and educational resources to support students. Want to help? You can make a significant impact by helping adults in our community learn to read. There are many opportunities to volunteer with The READ Center in locations throughout metro Richmond. Learn more on our website, www.readcenter.org. Our services are FREE to adults 18 and older. For more information and to refer someone for help, please call 804-288-9930.