Literacy Program

After just three months of instruction, 57% of program participants increased their reading aptitude by an average of 2.5 grade levels, according to a 2003 assessment.

A Child Salvaged
N.D. grew up in Lynwood, California, a city in South Central Los Angeles. In 1994, when she was in fifth grade, her parents were told that she probably would not graduate from elementary school. Soon she was labeled "learning disabled." When she came to World Literacy Crusade she was not yet reading at a second grade level.

After 25 hours of tutoring in remedial reading using a phonics-based approach she had improved by two grade levels. She then trained in Study Technology, a study method developed by L. Ron Hubbard.

N.D. is now in the 8th grade and is reading at her grade level. Her teachers tell her that she is one of the school's best students.

"Before, I didn't want to go to school. Now, I understand and feel good about school," said N.D. "I have learned better methods of study. This program has helped me have a better life and I am very happy."

This summer four colleges have invited N.D. to a summer camp for gifted students. Her goal now is to be a fashion designer.

A Man Turns His Life Around
A young man who was completely illiterate sought help from World Literacy Crusade. His baby daughter, born on the streets of Los Angeles, had been placed in foster care by the state just after the man sought rehabilitation in a shelter. After attending literacy classes for a little more than a year, he was able to get a steady job and his own apartment for the first time. He then won back custody of his daughter.