In the pursuit of advancing adult education and literacy initiatives, the involvement of allies plays a pivotal role in amplifying advocacy efforts and driving meaningful change. By engaging allies from various sectors and fields, advocates can leverage diverse perspectives, resources, and networks to effectively convey the importance of adult education to legislators. Here are examples of how allies can champion the cause of adult education and literacy:
1. Community College Presidents: Community college presidents recognize the value of adult education in preparing GED graduates for enrollment in their institutions. By supporting adult education initiatives, they contribute to expanding access to higher education for individuals seeking to further their academic pursuits.
2. Public Health Leaders: Public health leaders understand the critical role of adult education in addressing health literacy challenges. With a significant portion of adults facing difficulties in reading and comprehending medical instructions, adult education programs play a vital role in promoting health literacy and empowering individuals to make informed health decisions.
3. Business Leaders: Business leaders recognize the importance of investing in adult education to enhance workforce skills. By supporting adult education initiatives, they enable workers to improve their skills and adapt to technological advancements in the workplace, ultimately fostering a more competitive and innovative workforce.
Resources for Building Allies:
- Adult Learners as Advocates: Encourages the involvement of adult learners and community stakeholders in advocating for adult education and literacy. Provides activities and resources for adult learners to engage in advocacy efforts.
- Building Allies: Showcases examples of successful business-adult education alliances from various states, demonstrating effective strategies for partnership and advocacy.
- Coming to Our Senses: Education and the American Future: Highlights higher education’s recognition of adult education as a pipeline to their programs and services. Advocates for increased funding for adult education and literacy, emphasizing its importance in shaping the American workforce and economy.
- Return on Investment of Workplace Literacy Programs: Offers insights into the benefits of workplace literacy programs for various stakeholders. Includes a sample Building Business Allies Checklist to facilitate collaboration between businesses and adult education programs.
Incorporating allies into advocacy efforts for adult education and literacy strengthens the collective voice and impact of the movement. By fostering partnerships across sectors and fields, advocates can garner support, mobilize resources, and influence policy decisions that prioritize adult education and literacy. Together, with the involvement of allies, we can create a more literate, empowered society where individuals have access to the education and skills they need to thrive.