Margaret Williamson, Executive Director of Pro Literacy Detroit, pictured with President Ted Everingham, was the guest speaker at the Wednesday, July 13, meeting of Rotary of Grosse Pointe. 

Unfortunately, Williamson told the Rotarians present, approximately 1 million Detroit and Michigan residents are unable to read, even though there are some 150 literacy organizations out there offering assistance. Pro Literacy Detroit helps adult learners 16 and over become literate. Most of the students come through referrals from fellow/former students and from work force entities, such as Focus Hope.   

Pro Literacy Detroit has used a RI grant (the first of its kind in the U.S.) to create 250 trade tutor workshops. Williamson is proud of Rotary’s participation through the Rotary Literacy Initiative and an exchange program where Australian Rotarians helped tutors in 2 six week sessions.  

Ms. Williams believes that every dedicated student, no matter at what reading level, paired with a volunteer tutor will succeed.  
(Photo by George R. McMullen Jr.)