This year marks the 20th anniversary of JLW’s decision to build a better Washington, DC, by focusing our volunteer and financial resources on literacy. We know that an individual’s ability to read, write, and communicate lays the groundwork for his or her future success in all areas, and that a more literate DC means a stronger, more vibrant DC. Since 1999, our more than 2,300 trained volunteers have dealt with this issue head on and hands on—and our results speak for themselves.

Our literacy focus has brought JLW into partnerships with many incredible organizations in the metropolitan region, including our long-standing partnership with the Library of Congress’s National Book Festival. JLW has donated more than 130,000 new books to community organizations through our Resolution Read initiative, and contributed hundreds of thousands of dollars and even more volunteer hours to help improve literacy rates in children and adults. We’ve accomplished so much, but we know more can be done.

In 2019-2020, we will celebrate the power of literacy and build on two decades of voluntarism around this worthy cause through our campaign, Readers2Leaders. Our events and initiatives will both applaud our successes and further our work to improve literacy in our community. Just ask our members: literacy has open doors for them to lead, to grow, and to be a force for good. We believe everyone can be Readers2Leaders.

Literacy Anniversary Events 

In 2019-2020, JLW is hosting literacy fairs as we continue to turn Readers2Leaders during our 20th year focused on addressing illiteracy in the greater Washington, DC, community. Each fair will include seminars, workshops, readings, book drives, and activities.

• October 19, 2019 – Readers2Leaders: Empowering Women Through Literacy Adult Literacy Fair
  This free adult literacy event featured sessions focused on building the types of literacy that help DC women get ahead, including workplace, financial, nutritional, and digital literacy, resume writing and interview skills, and beyond.  
• February 1, 2020 – For the Love of Learning: Readers2Leaders Signature Festival – This free, one-of-a-kind event will bring together DC families with area nonprofits, authors and illustrators, and literacy experts, all in celebration of literacy, leadership, and lifelong learning. Featuring motivational TED-style talks, group workshops, exhibitions, giveaways, kid-friendly activities, and more, this event is fun for adults and children of all ages. No registration is required. Click here to learn more. 

JLW strives in all endeavors to be sensitive to the special needs of its members and guests. If you have any special needs or questions pertaining to our event, please let us know.