Leaders in Literacy

The Durham Literacy Center works to empower Durham County residents by improving their literacy skills. The Forest at Duke—through residents, team members, and funding—has a longstanding partnership with the center and its students.

Since 1985, the center has provided tuition-free classes to more than 17,000 adults and out-of-school youth.

Offering classes at no cost is the foundation of what makes the center’s work so effective. In one year, grant funds from The Forest at Duke provided instruction to approximately 70 older adult students.

Literacy is a very important tool. It creates opportunities for community members to develop skills that will help them provide for themselves and their families. The center seeks to change lives for the better, and its team members are passionate and dedicated to the cause. In fact, more than 90% of them are volunteers.

Importantly, the Durham Literacy Center provides a number of services in support of promoting literacy. It instructs adults in reading and writing and teaches basic computer skills to Durham residents. Additionally, it provides incarcerated youth at the Durham County Detention Center with GED and life skills classes and leads English classes for immigrant adults. Furthermore, the center guides out-of-school youth and adult learners in their preparation for high school equivalency tests, like the GED.

Notably, sponsoring tuition is just one way our community contributes. Residents of The Forest serve on the board, volunteer their time, and donate in support of the Durham Literacy Center.

The Forest at Duke is very proud to be a part of what makes the center our area’s leading independent literacy organization. We look forward to many more years to come!