COLUMBIA, S.C. — A local non-profit just announced an expansion, helping more Midlands adults learn how to read.
Lisa Cole said reading is something many of us take for granted every day. However, she said for close to 20% of adult South Carolinians, it's a skill they're lacking.
"There's an automatic assumption in those of us that can read that everyone can read, but nearly 800,000 folks in South Carolina can't do that," she said.
Cole is the executive director of Turning Pages, a South Carolina Midlands non-profit that focuses on teaching adults how to read.
"A lot of times they will hit that mid-30s range, and they're like, 'Oh, I have kids; oh, I need to better my life; oh, I need a better job; I need to help them with homework, and I can't," Cole said.
She said Turning Pages helps anyone above 18 who reads below a ninth-grade reading level completely free.
Each participant is entitled to 50 hours of one-on-one lessons with a tutor.
The organization took a hit during the COVID-19 pandemic, temporarily stalling services. However, they're now back and tutoring more than 20 people.
"In our post-pandemic era, over the past twelve months, we've seen a rise in senior citizens coming to us," Cole said.
The group has partnered with Richland County libraries for years. However, with increased demand and a goal to branch out, the organization has announced a new official partnership with the Lexington library system.
Matt Steinmetz is the technology coordinator for Lexington County and said the partnership has a bigger impact than just reading books.
"It's not just reading a book, it's everything from reading your prescription for your medicine, it's being able to write a Christmas card to your grandkids, being able to apply for a job. Those are all things that if you have a low literacy level, can be a barrier to you," Steinmetz explains.
Cole said Turning Pages is open to anyone who meets their standards and encourages people to call them at 803-216-5663.
"Their payment to us is their commitment to the program for those 24 weeks," Cole said.