Adult Programmes Foundations Project

Leo Migdal

-Dec 8, 2025, 8:41 AM

We are optimizing your request for the best experience. We use cookies to improve your experience on our platform. By clicking “Accept all cookies”, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage and assist in our marketing efforts. Discover a free AI-powered grant database to find grants for adult literacy programs. Access unlimited searches and boost your success rate! Supports nonprofits providing adult basic education, GED prep, or English language acquisition services.

ProLiteracy (Funded by Nora Roberts Foundation) Grants to US-based nonprofits for general operating expenses or specific projects supporting adult literacy. First Literacy Grant Funded Projects support innovative ideas for Adult Basic Education (ABE) program or curriculum initiatives. Our grants offer both financial and administrative support and improve the classroom experience for both adult learners and their teachers. Previous funded projects are highlighted below. To receive important updates about First Literacy Grant Funded Projects, join our mailing list.

We also encourage you to visit our library of online resources, where First Literacy Grant Funded Project Presentations can be accessed and adapted for your own programs. For questions about First Literacy Grants, contact Annie Sferrazza, at 617.482.3336 or asferrazza@firstliteracy.org. Please note, the 2025 Spotlight on Innovation in Adult Basic Education will highlight the 2024-2025 grant recipients. To view these projects please scroll to the bottom of the page. At the Osterville Village Library, we are expanding our successful Book Tasting series—an immersive, café-style literacy experience where participants “sample” books and media in multiple formats, from traditional print to Wonderbooks, Launchpads, bilingual resources,... This initiative addresses the need for accessible, engaging, and inclusive literacy tools for individuals with diverse learning styles, language backgrounds, and literacy levels.

By creating a multisensory, choice-based environment, we aim to foster a love of reading and increase confidence in learners who may not connect with traditional print alone. Our desired outcome is to improve literacy engagement and retention by meeting people where they are—through the format that works best for them. City of Dublin ETB works in partnership with homeless services and other agencies to increase access to education for those who are homeless. City of Dublin FET College Foundations offers programmes for adults and children who are using homeless services. For more information, please contact: Parnell Adult Learning Centre, 1 Parnell Square, Dublin 1 - (01) 873 6012 Find funding to enhance your organization’s ability to transform lives.

Grant opportunities for adult literacy programs to get funding support for general operating expenses. Grant opportunities for adult literacy programs to purchase licenses to use digital instructional resources. Grant opportunities for adult literacy and basic education programs to purchase print resources for instruction Nora Roberts Foundation believes in the tremendous power of literacy to create equity, access, and opportunity. They provide grant funding to nonprofits that focus on literacy, children, arts, and humanities Literacy is a fundamental skill that serves as the bedrock of personal and societal development.

It empowers individuals to navigate the complexities of modern life, from understanding health information to engaging in civic responsibilities. Adult education programs play a crucial role in enhancing literacy levels among adults who may have missed out on formal education during their youth. These programs not only provide essential reading and writing skills but also foster critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and digital literacy, which are increasingly vital in today’s technology-driven world. Moreover, the benefits of literacy extend beyond the individual. Communities with higher literacy rates tend to experience lower crime rates, improved public health outcomes, and greater economic stability. When adults engage in literacy programs, they often become more active participants in their communities, contributing to local economies and fostering a culture of lifelong learning.

The ripple effects of improved literacy can lead to a more informed electorate, increased workforce productivity, and enhanced social cohesion, making the case for robust investment in adult education programs all the more compelling. Despite the clear benefits of literacy and adult education programs, securing adequate funding remains a significant challenge. One of the primary obstacles is the perception that these programs are not a priority compared to other pressing social issues such as healthcare or infrastructure. This misconception can lead to a lack of political will and public support, resulting in insufficient budget allocations at both local and national levels. Additionally, adult education often competes with other educational initiatives for limited resources, making it difficult to secure dedicated funding streams. Another challenge lies in the diverse needs of adult learners, which can complicate program design and funding requests.

Adult education encompasses a wide range of services, from basic literacy to vocational training, and each program may require different types of funding and support. Our Adult Programmes are mostly based in Parnell Adult Learning Centre. Here we provide education courses, as well as advice on education and employment options available throughout the city. All our courses are free and run throughout the year. Classes typically start in September and January although continuous enrollment is possible in some classes. Students can sign up for short ‘taster’ courses (6 weeks), as well as courses certified at QQI levels 2, 3 & 4 (14 weeks to full academic year).

We run a range of courses in different subjects including Computers, Digital Photography, Art, Yoga, Cookery, Communications, Social Studies and much more. We also occasionally more specific programmes such as Parenting groups, Settlement Skills (preparing to move on) and Preparation for College and Study Support. Please contact us to find out our current course offerings. First Literacy Grants provide funding that stimulates and supports the development, trial, and implementation of innovative and impactful Adult Basic Education (ABE) resources and practices. Grants of up to $15,000 are open to all not-for-profit Adult Basic Education organizations in Massachusetts. Projects are teacher-led, directly impact adult learners, and are shared with peer organizations to enrich the entire ABE and ESOL field.

Grants can be used for projects such as developing and piloting a program idea, offering a short-term class that fills an unmet student need, or organization-wide initiatives. Past projects have incorporated everything from poetry and theater to civics and science. All projects are shared each year in our annual event: Spotlight on Innovation in Adult Basic Education. To learn more about current and past projects visit our Grant Funded Projects page. To view FAQs please scroll to the bottom of this page. The 2025-2026 First Literacy Grant request for proposals and application is now closed!

The deadline to apply was May 6, 2025 at 5:00 pm. First Literacy Grants Fiscal Year 2026 Application Questions (pdf of questions for reference only; application must be completed through the link above) Most questions will be answered in the FAQs below, but if you have an idea you would like to discuss before applying, please contact Annie Sferrazza at 617-482-3336 or asferrazza@firstliteracy.org. To receive grant-related updates please sign up for our mailing list.

Adult Programmes Foundations Project

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