5 Nonprofits that Support Workforce Development & Literacy

If you’re feeling in the spirit of giving this holiday season, there are numerous charity organizations that support advancements in workforce development and literacy. We’ve rounded up a few of the most impactful nonprofits in these sectors. If you decide to contribute, don’t forget to check and see if your employer will match your donation! 

1. ProLiteracy

From the website: “ProLiteracy, the largest adult literacy and basic education membership organization in the nation, believes that a safer, stronger, and more sustainable society starts with an educated adult population. For more than 60 years, ProLiteracy has been working across the globe to change lives and communities through the power of literacy.” 

How you can support:  

• Volunteer to teach an adult to read 
• Download their free Advocacy Toolkit and reach out to policymakers and donors 
• Become a member, either as an individual or an organization 
• Donate or fundraise 

2. Goodwill

From the website: “Goodwill helps people improve their lives by assisting individuals to find a job and grow their careers. In 2021, Goodwill served nearly 2 million individuals worldwide and helped more than 123,000 people train for careers in industries such as banking, IT and health care, to name a few, and get the supportive services they needed to be successful, such as English language training, additional education, and access to transportation and child care.” 

How you can support: 

• Donate new or gently used clothes and household items 
• Shop at your local Goodwill 
• Make a financial contribution to your local Goodwill or the national network 

3. National Coalition for Literacy

From the website: “The National Coalition for Literacy is an alliance of the leading national and regional organizations dedicated to advancing adult education, family literacy, and English language acquisition in the United States. Through collaborative efforts with other advocacy organizations and individuals, NCL ensures that leaders and legislators at the national level make informed decisions about policies, regulations, and funding for adult education and family literacy.” 

How you can support:  

• Become an organizational or individual member 
• Use their advocacy resources to promote the cause 
• Make a donation 

4. Jobs for the Future

From the website: “Jobs for the Future (JFF) drives transformation of the American workforce and education systems to achieve equitable economic advancement for all.” 

How you can support: Make a standard donation or donate cryptocurrency or stock through their website. 

5. Barbara Bush Foundation

From the website: “Our calling is to improve lives through literacy. We are dedicated to expanding access to literacy services for adults nationwide because we believe in the uniquely transformative power of literacy. The ability to read, write, and comprehend brings dignity to daily life and equal opportunity to fulfill one’s greatest potential.” 

How you can support: There are a number of ways to make a financial contribution. You can also sponsor an event. 

Frequently Asked Questions

• How do workforce development and literacy nonprofits make an impact in communities?
  These nonprofits provide education, training, and resources that help individuals gain essential skills for the workforce. By supporting literacy and job readiness, they empower individuals to secure better employment, contributing to economic growth and community stability.
• What types of programs do workforce development nonprofits offer?
  Programs often include job training, digital literacy courses, career counseling, and adult education classes. Many nonprofits also partner with local businesses to provide hands-on experience and placement opportunities for program participants.
• How can individuals or organizations support nonprofits focused on workforce development and literacy?
  Individuals can support these nonprofits by volunteering, donating, or advocating for their programs. Organizations can partner with these nonprofits by offering resources, sponsoring training sessions, or providing job opportunities for program graduates.