Only Half Of Americans Fully Aware Of Illiteracy Problem.

If you can read this, chances are you underestimate the problem of illiteracy and feel you don’t know how to help. A new survey, commissioned by Wal-Mart Stores, Inc., shows that only half of Americans polled (50 percent) understand the extent of the illiteracy problem in the United States and nearly three-fourths (72 percent) don’t know the name of a literacy organization which offers adults help locally.

The survey also found that more than half of Americans (54 percent) say they don’t have the time to help personally — although a clear majority (68 percent) feel they have the skills and patience necessary to teach a functioning illiterate adult to read.

“The survey also shows that we’re frustrated — we know there is a problem, we feel we should help, but we don’t have the time or know where to volunteer or refer somebody who needs assistance,” said Marsha Tait, senior vice president of ProLiteracy Worldwide. “Wal-Mart’s helpline can make a big difference for all of us.”

While reading is the gateway to better jobs and a better life, approximately 20 percent of U.S. adults are functionally illiterate — meaning one in five of U.S. adults have difficulty reading a newspaper, difficulty filling out a job application, and difficulty following written instructions.

“Being able to read is extremely important. An adult who learns how to read has more confidence, can secure a better job, and has greater earning potential than those who can’t,” said Tait. “Even more importantly, an adult who can fully participate in his or her child’s own experiences with reading, writing, and learning is not only likely to raise a child who will succeed in school, but a child who will succeed in life.”

For more information at http://www.walmartfoundation.org