We’re back with another episode of Healthy Cleveland. In this episode, Leah Longbrake spoke with Bonnie Entler, Director for Seeds of Literacy, and Marie Rodriguez, a 2012 graduate.

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Seeds of Literacy is a non-profit that works to provide free basic education to adults in the Cleveland area. About 66% of Cleveland adults are functionally illiterate. Functional illiteracy is not traditional illiteracy. Traditional illiteracy involves the inability to read or write. Functional illiteracy involves the inability to understand life instructions, like bus schedules, job applications, or medical instructions.

What makes Seeds of Literacy different from traditional education is the option for students to attend at their own discretion. For many, going back to school even part time is too time consuming of an undertaking. In addition, some students have not had any schooling in decades, meaning that even basic curriculum might be above their ability.

They aim to close this gap by having students work towards their GED, TASC, or HiSET. Classes are still available even if you have a high school diploma or an equivalent.

To learn more about Seeds of Literacy, you can go to their website, https://www.seedsofliteracy.org/