ADULT BASIC EDUCATION

The Literacy Program is a 501 ( c ) ( 3 ) Non-Profit Organization.

The program began in 1985 with 3 volunteer tutors. From 1985 to 1991 all the work was conducted by volunteers. An American Corp Vista Volunteer joined the program to assist in planning and recruiting students and volunteers. The first Executive Director, Andy Thomas, was employed in 1991. He resigned in 1995 and the program reorganized under the direction of the new Executive Director, Hazel C. Smith.

The Technical College of the Lowcountry provided space for the program and it expanded to include Workplace programs, basic skills, and pre-GED studies. Computers were added in 1996 and the program was accepted under the umbrella of the State Adult and Community Education, an agency of the State Department of Education. The program was allowed to do GED preparation. The first student to take the GED test after preparing at the Adult Learning Center received his GED in the Fall of 1996. Since 1996, more than 70 clients have studied for their GED tests at Literacy's Adult Learning Center.

Literacy partners with the Department of Employment and Workforce, Department of Social Services, Lowcountry Workforce Investment Area, Technical College of the Lowcountry, and other agencies that serve the adult residents of Hampotn County. Services now include the WorkKey testing for Hampton County.

In December 2010, the Learning Center moved to another site for building renovations. On March 12, classes will once again meet in the Technical College building.

The present Executive Director has been with the program 16 1/2 years.