A Healthy Route for Change Starts at Tech World Plaza
Date: Saturday, October 9th, 2004
Check-in: 7:30 - 8:30 am Walk starts at 8:30 am
Location: Tech World Plaza K Street NW, between 7th & 9th Streets, in Washington, D.C.

Hundreds of adult education advocates, adult learners and supporters will join the Walk for Literacy 2004 on Saturday, October 9. The event is sponsored by the University of the District of Columbia State Education Agency, Adult Education (SEA), in partnership with the Booker T. Washington Public Charter School. The annual 3K Walk for Literacy was established by the SEA in 2001 to spotlight adult literacy needs.

Thirty-seven percent of District adults are in need of literacy support, representing one of the nation's lowest literacy proficiency rates. The SEA's state and federal funding can only address about 10 percent of those in need.

"Low literacy affects more than the individual," notes Jerry Johnson, SEA assistant state director. "High literacy equals self-sufficiency, a voice in society, quality employment and an improved quality of life. An investment in adult literacy is an investment in the entire community."

Walk participants can tour the SEA's most innovative literacy teacher - the Trans*form*er. This high tech mobile classroom, a 37-foot Winnebago, is equipped with 12 network computers and state-of-the-art technology and travels to DC's underserved communities.

As the District's principal crusader for adult education, the SEA funds 20 adult education programs throughout the city that improve adult literacy skills through a variety of services including ESL, a computer-use program for seniors, GED preparation, family and workplace literacy courses and adult basic education. Every dollar raised from the Walk goes directly to SEA funded programs.

Official sponsors of the Fourth Annual 3K Walk for Literacy include: NBC 4, The Washington Informer, Education Consulting Services, The Washington Times, Renaissance Washington, DC Hotel, FannieMae Foundation, Giant, UDC Cable Television, and Prosperity Media.

For further information on Walk for Literacy 2004, contact Elizabeth Jenkins at (202) 833-9771.

Online registration Here