We bring together national, state, and local partners to share information and resources, align on messaging, and collectively advocate for policies that support adult education and literacy.

We advance policies that expand access, increase investment, and ensure adult learners have the foundational skills they need to succeed (e.g. reading, writing, math, digital, and AI literacies).

Through shared advocacy, we elevate what works, influence decision-makers, and drive lasting policy and systems change.

We aim to increase public understanding and recognition of the importance of adult education and literacy more broadly.

Through strategic communications, storytelling, and national engagement, we shine a light on the needs of adult learners and the value of the field.

Building field capacity is central to NCL’s mission. We work to equip organizations, educators, and advocates with the tools, resources, knowledge, and network they need to improve program reach, delivery, and effectiveness for adults and families.

NCL’s capacity-building work is grounded in addressing systemic gaps in the literacy landscape. 

By highlighting the scale of unmet need—tens of millions of adults lacking foundational literacy, numeracy, and digital skills—the coalition advocates for increased investment and stronger infrastructure.

We bring together leaders across education, workforce, business, and community systems to strengthen the adult education and literacy ecosystem.

Through network-building and partnerships, we help the field transform research to practice, providing access to shared resources, expertise, and strategies to create seamless pathways for adult learners to access education, training, and good jobs.

Participation in the National Coalition for Literacy is open to all organizations interested in advancing adult education, English learning, and family literacy in U.S.