Community Service
Barbara Bush Houston Literacy Foundation
Free adult literacy programs, family reading programs, and GED preparation. They connect you with tutoring and classes across Houston.
Details
EligibilityAdults with low literacy and their families
HoursVaries by program
“Perhaps all the dragons in our lives are princesses who are only waiting to see us act, just once, with beauty and courage. Perhaps everything that frightens us is, in its deepest essence, something helpless that wants our love. ”
— Rainer Maria RilkeRelated
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Houston Schools Research Group Studies Education EquityThe Houston Education Research Consortium (HERC) is a partnership between Rice University's Kinder Institute and eight Houston-area school districts. They work together to study how to make schools more fair and equal for all students. HERC does long-term research on important school topics like helping students who move between schools, supporting kids learning English, improving pre-K programs, and getting students ready for college and careers. They look at real data from schools to help leaders make better decisions. Recent studies include how the state's school grading system affects low-income students, what parents think about HISD's Parent University program, and how social-emotional learning helps with school discipline. They also studied how Hurricane Harvey affected homeless students and how COVID-19 changed school enrollment. The research helps school districts understand what works best for students, especially those who face challenges like poverty or language barriers. All their reports and data are shared publicly to help improve education in Houston.
Free Learning Videos and Resources for FamiliesLiving Learning Libraries offers a collection of educational videos and resources for families who want to learn at home. Their 'Video Feast' is a playlist of educational content that helps families discover learning tools and how to use them effectively. The organization focuses on providing wholesome, vibrant educational materials that support home learning and family education. They offer these resources for free to help families access quality educational content. The videos cover various topics and are designed to be easy to use. Families can watch the videos at their own pace and find resources that match their learning needs. This is especially helpful for homeschooling families, parents who want to supplement their children's education, or anyone interested in lifelong learning. The organization believes in making education accessible to everyone through digital resources.
Troy Student Wins Award for Teaching Kids About Civic LifeLauren Cochran won the 2025 Jean O'Connor-Snyder Award for her work at Troy University in Alabama. She helps college students get involved in their community through programs like Campus Kitchens, which recovers food and gives it to people who need it. She also runs programs that teach middle school kids about democracy and citizenship. Her office helps college students learn civic skills while serving their community. They run a summer camp for younger kids to learn about government and being good citizens. The university also has a food pantry that helps students who don't have enough food or school supplies. This pantry serves 50 students each week and gives out over 500 pounds of food and supplies. Students say the pantry helps them do better in school because they can focus on learning instead of worrying about basic needs. The award honors people who teach others how to be active citizens in their communities.
How One City Turned Around Its Schools by Listening to FamiliesThis is a two-part podcast series about Reading, Pennsylvania, a city that was struggling with poverty and failing schools. Instead of bringing in outside experts with a plan, community leaders did something different - they listened. They held conversations in English and Spanish to ask residents what they really wanted for their children and community. What they found wasn't division, but shared hopes. School officials, nonprofits, faith groups, and families started working together instead of separately. They made small changes that people could see and feel - like better after-school programs and support for families learning English. The result was stronger schools, new partnerships, and renewed hope. The podcast includes interviews with local leaders, parents, and community members who share how this 'turning outward' approach created real change. It also offers a free study guide with practical steps other communities can use to start listening more deeply and building collaboration. The story shows how communities can overcome big challenges when they stop talking and start listening to what people actually need.
The Journey
7 connected resources across 5 levelsTrail depth
Level 1
Get CuriousRead, watch, explore1 resourceLevel 2
Find Your PeopleMeet orgs, neighbors, groups6 resourcesYou are hereOrganizationLearning LifeOffers education programs and resources to help people learn new skills and grow throughout their lives. Supports people in reaching their personal goals.
OrganizationMissouri University ExtensionOffers classes, workshops, and resources about farming, nutrition, family life, and business skills. Helps families and communities become stronger and healthier.
OrganizationLiving Learning Libraries
+3 more at this levelLevel 3
Show UpEvents, meetings, volunteeringWe are building resources for this level
Level 4
Go DeeperTraining, sustained involvementWe are building resources for this level
Level 5
Make Your MoveAdvocacy, organizing, creatingWe are building resources for this level
Focus Areas