Literacy service providers, educators, businesses, legislators and passionate volunteers are determined to break the intergenerational cycle of low literacy in our state. Literacy 2030 unites these stakeholders under an admittedly challenging yet important goal—reaching 100 percent literacy in the Midlands of South Carolina by the year 2030—and works to connect, equip and support them for the journey. We believe in the power of collaboration to change lives. We believe that by 2030, we will see a community transformed.

UNITY

By focusing the varied spectrum of literacy nonprofits towards one common goal, we improve communication, maximize organizational efficiency, expand service awareness and work together for positive change in the communities we serve.

SUPPORT

We provide literacy organizations with a variety of resources—from funding sources to training workshops—to extend the reach of their efforts.

COOPERATION

By centering the varied spectrum of literacy nonprofits around one common goal, we improve communication, maximize organizational efficiency, expand service awareness, and work together for positive change in the communities we serve.

ADVOCACY

We stand as the united voice of the literacy movement, working to promote literacy efforts, raise awareness and build a network of community support.

How We Began

Literacy 2030 grew from conversation among literacy service providers. For many years, there has been a need for a coalition to further the work of literacy providers in South Carolina. In fall 2009, members of the original group “A Community of Readers” began serious conversations about convening a summit. Funding was secured in the spring of 2010 from Central Carolina Community Foundation. The first Literacy 2030 Summit was held on October 16, 2010. Original group members and organizers were:

  • JoAnn Turnquist – Central Carolina Community Foundation
  • Jo Bull – Central Carolina Community Foundation
  • Veronica Pinkett-Barber – Central Carolina Community Foundation
  • Ellen Hinrichs – South Carolina Center for Children’s Books and Literacy
  • Denise Lyons – South Carolina State Library
  • Kathy Olson – United Way of the Midlands
  • Melanie Huggins – Richland County Public Library
  • Clo Cammarata – Richland County Public Library
  • Darlene Paradise – Rolling Readers of the Midlands
  • Rick Noble – Richland County First Steps
  • Tracey Ely – Tutor Eau Claire
  • Caroline Bennett –Author of Charley’s Columbia Backyard
  • Sarah Conrad – Community Volunteer
  • Belinda Gergel – Columbia City Council

In winter 2011, Central Carolina Community Foundation approved the hiring its first director of community philanthropy. Central Carolina Community Foundation would provide the home for Literacy 2030, and thus began the next phase in the journey to 100 percent literacy.

This is our future. We want empowered, 100 percent literate citizens who will grow our economy and strengthen our state. Join us as we march toward a literate South Carolina.