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Literacy is the key to solving .

130 million adults in the U.S. struggle to read basic sentences. U.S. Department of Education, Office of Career, Technical, and Adult Education. (2015, February) Making Skills Everyone’s Business: A Call to Transform Adult Learning in the United States.

All the things I worry about in life would be better if more people could read, write, and comprehend.

Barbara Bush
Events
National Celebration of Reading 2023

Join us on October 11, 2023 in Washington, D.C. for our signature biennial event, which advances the Foundation’s mission and raises support for our nationwide programming. 

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News
Barbara Bush Foundation 2022 Annual Report

In 2022, we launched a new reading mentorship program and convened partners to boost literacy skills in adults across the nation. Read more about our work, supporters, and upcoming events in our 2022 Annual Report.

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Literacy Resources
Find a Literacy Program

If you or someone you know need assistance finding a literacy program, visit the National Literacy Directory’s website or call their toll-free, operator-assisted hotline at (877) 389-6874.

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The Issue

We’re facing a literacy crisis
in the United States

Our country is in crisis. 130 million adults in the United States struggle to read basic
sentences — which can make it difficult or impossible to navigate everyday life. U.S. Department of Education, Office of Career, Technical, and Adult Education. (2015, February) Making Skills Everyone’s Business: A Call to Transform Adult Learning in the United States.

Our highest-risk
communities
struggle with literacy.
See the map >
1 in 5
adults in the U.S.
struggle to fill out
a form. U.S. Department of Education, Office of Career, Technical, and Adult Education. (2015, February) Making Skills Everyone’s Business: A Call to Transform Adult Learning in the United States.
Our Impact

Improving every
aspect of life

For over 30 years, we’ve been changing lives through literacy. We know that when we empower adults with literacy skills, it benefits everyone. Our strategy to promote better outcomes for adult learners relies on fostering innovation, expanding access to services, increasing public awareness, and implementing evidence-based practices across communities.

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SUPPORT

Donate to invest
in our country’s future

When we solve the literacy gap, we strengthen families, communities, and businesses across the United States. Help us solve today’s most pressing issues.

Donate Now

If you are a company or organization, learn about MORE Ways to Give

About us

A legacy of literacy

Mrs. Bush knew that literacy is key to improving lives. As the nation’s leading advocate for literacy, we’re continuing her mission.

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Nothing takes more courage or persistence or heart than taking a second chance on education. And nothing can have a greater impact on people’s lives.
Barbara Bush