Literacy KC

Big thanks to Performance Safety Solutions for empowering our students to reach new heights—literally! After 10 classes, a written test, and a hands-on driving exam, our Literacy KC students are now certified forklift drivers, ready to roll into new job opportunities. Special shoutout to our instructor, Sarah Leffler, for guiding them every step of the way. Learn more about our Workforce Development programs at literacykc.org!

?? Bridget Richards serves as Vice President of the Board of Directors at Literacy KC, bringing a deep passion for supporting the organization's mission to uplift families in the Kansas City community. With her role in nonprofit fundraising at a pediatric hospital, she understands how community generosity can drive meaningful change. Bridget believes education is a fundamental human right and views literacy as a transformative force that can improve lives. As a board member, she collaborates with others to provide strategic guidance and mentors marketing staff to support the organization's growth. One of her favorite quotes, by Ernest Hemingway, reflects her perspective on resilience: “The world breaks everyone, and afterward, some are strong at the broken places.” Bridget encourages passionate individuals to get involved with Literacy KC, emphasizing that those who believe in education as the key to success can make a real difference in the lives of learners. She is proud to help advance Literacy KC’s mission of “Literacy for All” and is honored to serve the adult learners of Kansas City. #LiteracyForAll #CommunityImpact #NonprofitLeadership

It’s What Are You Reading Wednesday! ?? This week, we're diving into “I Want to Thank You” by Gina Hamadey, a heartfelt journey of gratitude through handwritten thank-you notes. Hamadey's reflections remind us of the beauty in everyday connections and the power of a simple "thank you." Perfect for this season of appreciation! Have you read this one? Let us know your thoughts! #WhatAreYouReadingWednesday #ThankfulReads #LiteracyKC

The Next Steps Career Class empowers individuals to chart their career paths while creating a personalized career map as a visual roadmap outlining steps to achieve their long-term career goals. The course emphasizes self-assessment, career exploration, goal setting, digital literacy skills, and developing 21st-century skills. Our students had an inspiring day at Literacy KC's Next Step Career Class! A representative from Goodwill spoke to the group about discovering their passions and career purposes, while Ares CDL Institute shared valuable insights into their training programs. JE Dunn Construction also highlighted exciting career opportunities in the construction industry. This was a powerful collaboration to help guide students toward their next step! If your company would like to host a push-in with our students, please contact us at? [email protected] or 816-333-9332. #CareerDevelopment #PassionAndPurpose #TrainingOpportunities

Meet Donna Linares, one of our dedicated English Language Learners! Donna joined Literacy KC in pursuit of better job opportunities and a brighter future. ???? Great job, Donna — keep shining! ? If you or anyone you know is looking to learn English, call us at 816.333.9332. We're here to help! #EnglishLanguageLearners #LiteracyKC #EmpowerThroughEducation

In celebration of National Career Development Month, we at Literacy KC want to extend our heartfelt thanks to our incredible Workforce Development Partners—Builders Association, Ares CDL, Goodwill, and MedKC. Their ongoing support helps empower individuals to build successful careers and instills a sense of pride and value in our students. Our students are exposed to career pathways in the finishing trades, logistics, and healthcare industries through these partnerships. This exposure aids career exploration in unthought-of pathways, and partnership is a key factor in this journey. National Career Development Month, recognized every November, highlights the importance of career planning, growth, and advancement. It highlights the vital role of workforce development organizations, like Literacy KC, and our partners in shaping the future labor market. Together, we are creating pathways to success for individuals and influencing and strengthening our communities. If you would like to: Schedule a push-in session with our students to share about your industry, Upskill your team through custom trade-specific literacy or language skill building or become a vendor at our Next Steps Career Fest held April 11, 2025, please contact us at [email protected]. If you want to learn more about enrolling students in our Integrated Education Training classes, please contact us at 816-333-9332. #BuildingCareers #StrongerCommunities #EmpoweringThroughEducation

Meet Phillip Wilkins, a recent graduate of Literacy KC who’s taken a huge step forward in his pharmaceutical career! ???? Phillip credits Literacy KC with providing the credentials he needed to advance, saying that while he had the experience, education was the key to unlocking new opportunities. His advice for future graduates? “It’s never too late. Stay steadfast, and remember, there are so many great people at Literacy KC who genuinely want to see you succeed.” We’re proud of Phillip and all our graduates who continue to chase their dreams and reach new heights! ?? #PharmaceuticalCareer #NeverTooLate #EducationMatters #CareerAdvancement

?? Fun Fact Friday Spotlight: Meet Freddie Manor III, our amazing Employee Relations Manager! ?? Freddie is a collector of socks, hats, Chiefs swag, and Harry Potter gear, showcasing his fun and quirky side. One of his bucket list goals is to visit all 50 states, and he believes in the power of advice—his favorite being, “Walk the roads you usually drive.” Seeing things from a different perspective can be very humbling. When it comes to reading, he enjoys “Good Vibes, Good Life” by Vex King and “The 4 Stages of Psychological Safety” by Timothy Clark. Above all, Freddie is passionate about his family and loves helping others. Let’s give him a shoutout for all he does! ???? ?#FunFactFriday #EmployeeSpotlight #TeamFreddie

?? Just TWO days to go until our Music Bingo Brunch and Toy Drive at Chicken N Pickle! ?? Don’t miss out on a fun night for a great cause—every ticket sold supports Literacy KC! Let’s make a difference together while enjoying some awesome tunes! ???

?? Pick of the Week: "Good Vibes, Good Life" by Vex King ?? Chosen by our very own Freddie Manor III, Employee Relations Manager, this inspiring book teaches us the importance of self-love and positivity. Vex King shares his journey and offers practical advice on how to transform your mindset and elevate your life through good vibes! What’s your pick of the week? Drop a comment below and let us know! ??? #LiteracyKC #BookRecommendation #GoodVibes