Mission
The purpose of this organization shall be to teach, through trained tutors, reading and writing to those in need. In addition, this organization shall work to raise public awareness of the literacy needs of Wilkes County residents.
Programs
Wilkes Literacy offers FREE, private, confidential evaluation and instruction for adults in Wilkes County who wish to improve their reading and writing skills. Reading and writing are the keys to success in today’s competitive job market. Please contact us online or call for more information. We are here to help!
Although our primary focus is adult literacy, Wilkes Literacy also offers programs for children and senior adults. We provide both individualized and group activities focused on improving literacy skills. Wilkes Literacy is a 501(c)(3) organization and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, national origin, citizenship status, age, disability, sexual orientation or veteran status.
“Literacy isn't just about reading, writing, and comprehension. It's about culture, professionalism, and social outlook.”
Taylor Ellwood
History
Wilkes Literacy, formerly Volunteers for Wilkes Literacy, was founded in 1989 by the late Dr. Helen Latour in order to meet the literacy needs of the citizens of Wilkes County, North Carolina. Her tireless efforts touched the lives of many. Please join us as we endeavor to carry on her vision. Wilkes Literacy provides a variety of programs and services related to the literacy needs of our friends and neighbors. We are a non-profit organization and a partner agency with United Way of Wilkes.
Our Team
Jean hefner, executive director
Jean Hefner joined Wilkes Literacy as the Executive Director in August 2019. Jean has a Master's of Public Affairs from Western Carolina University. She brings over 15 years of nonprofit experience to Wilkes Literacy. This experience includes performance and quality improvement, human resources management, budget development and management, and policy review. Jean also volunteers in the Wilkes County school system and her local church.
Board of Directors
Thomas McMahan, Chairman
Judi Gorich, Vice Chairman
Laura Walsh, Treasurer
Meleah Greer, Secretary
Alicia Horton
Betsy Welborn
Greta Ferguson
Joe Love
Temoc Herrejon
Melanie Parrish