For adults struggling with reading, writing or spelling, seeking help can be a challenge. The Adult Literacy Tutors Association (ALTA) says its 2026 campaign, “A Little Today, A Lot Tomorrow,” aims to encourage more people to enrol in its free literacy classes.
Through community-based and virtual programmes, ALTA helps adults and young people build essential reading, writing and spelling skills.
ALTA student Clifton Toppin says encouragement from others helped him return to learning, after years of feeling that school had been a struggle.
““I could read, I can write, I could spell much better than I was before. Thanks to the teachers, and then they never give up on us. They show us the patience and the motive give us the motivation to keep coming. Because without that motivation, some of us will give up because we’re really looking forward for somebody to be there for us”
Tutor Deborah Thomas Austin says ALTA’s classrooms are designed to be supportive spaces, where progress can be seen in practical moments as well as formal learning. She says students’ gains can affect everyday tasks, from reading signs to handling paperwork independently.
“And in in between the tears, she said, you know, Miss, I was able to go to the funeral home and handle all the arrangements without getting help from anyone. She was able to fill out all the forms on her own.”
Registration for ALTA’s community and virtual classes is ongoing. The organisation is also encouraging members of the public to support its work by volunteering, sponsoring a student or helping to raise awareness. Its message to prospective students: take the first step.