In 1970, visionary educator Mildred Gilman founded the Eastern Massachusetts Literacy Council with the goal of providing essential language and literacy skills to the under-served and culturally marginalized people of Eastern Massachusetts. EMLC’s unique mission is to provide free one-on-one English literacy instruction through lessons designed to meet the individualized goals of each learner.

As of 2002, 21% of learners in EMLC’s tutoring program gained employment, got a better job, performed new job requirements or left public assistance, 29% became more involved in family or community and another 4 % obtained their GED, enrolled in post- secondary education or enrolled in a vocational training program. The Massachusetts Department of Education, the Acton-Boxborough United Way and ProLiteracy Worldwide evaluate this organization externally for excellence. EMLC has trained more than 3,000 volunteers to provide support and education necessary for thousands of learners to pursue job advancement, gain American citizenship and pursue personal life goals. There is a waiting list of over 200 and over 50,000 people eligible for their services in their area. Providing services to immigrants and native speakers of limited literacy ability so that they can engage meaningfully and purposefully in their own lives and the lives of their communities is what EMLC does best. Please help strengthen this good work.