KANKAKEE – Kankakee Community College has been selected to receive a grant for more than $67,000 from the Illinois Secretary of State to develop their adult literacy program, State Senator Patrick Joyce (D-Park Forest) announced Friday.

“The importance of literacy cannot be overstated,” Joyce said. “During these challenging times, helping someone read and write effectively or acquire basic math skills will give them the tools to take steps toward a better career and a better life.”

According to the Secretary of State’s office, more than 13,500 students will be served by adult literacy programs throughout Illinois. Supported by $5.6 million in state funds, the programs will depend on nearly 6,000 volunteer tutors to provide skills training for students.

Adult literacy projects focus on improving reading, writing and math and are targeted at Illinois adults who read below the ninth-grade level or speak English at a beginning level.

Joyce urges skilled tutors interested in volunteering to contact the Illinois Adult Learning Hotline at 800-321-9511.