Starting something new can bring a lot of questions. If you're been thinking about improving your reading, math, English, computer skills, or working toward a personal goal, you may be wondering what happens after you contact us.

​At Crawford County Volunteers for Literacy (CCVL), we want getting started to feel simple and welcoming. Here's what you can expect during your first visit. 

Do I need to know exactly what I want to learn?
Not at all! Some contact us with a very specific goal, like preparing for their driver's license or Arkansas High School Diploma. Others simply low that want to improve a skill but aren't sure where to begin. That's okay!

Your first visit is about having a conversation. We'll learn more about what you'd like to accomplish and help you explore the best path forward. 

What will be talk about?
We'll spend some time getting to know you. We may ask questions like:
- what you'd like to accomplish
- your schedule
- your previous education or learning experiences
- any questions or concerns you have
There's no right or wrong answer. This conversation simply helps us understand how we can best support you.

Will I have to take a test?
Sometimes, yes but probably not what you're imagining. Depending on your goals, we may ask you to complete a few simple activities that help us understand your current skills.

These aren't pass-or-fail tests.  There are no grades. 

The purpose isn't to judge what you know. It's to help up recommend learning materials and activities that match where you're starting. 

Did you know?
Many people think adult literacy programs are only for earning a high school diploma. In realty, learners come to CCVL for many different reasons, including:
- improving reading or writing
- strengthening math skills
- learning English
- becoming more confident using a computer
- preparing for additional education or workforce training
- working toward personal goals, like earning a driver's license

Every learner's goals are different and your learning plan will be too!

What happens after your first visit?
Once we've learned more about your goals and current skills, we'l recommend the next steps. 

Depending on your needs, that may include working with a trained volunteer tutor, using online learning programs, practicing independently between sessions, or participating in other learning opportunities offered by CCVL. 

We'll work together to find an approach that fits your goals and your schedule. 

How long will it take?
Every learner's journey is different. Some people work toward a short-term goal over a few weeks. Others continue learning for several moths. Progress isn't about moving quickly.  It's about continuing to move forward.

What if I'm nervous?
You're not the only one. Many learners tell us they felt unsure before contacting us. Starting something new can feel scary, especially if it's been years since you've been in a learning environment. Our goal is to create a welcoming place where you can ask questions, learn at your own pace, and build confidence one step at a time. 

​Is there a cost?
No. Thanks to grants, donations, and community support, all of our programs and services are provided free of charge. 

Reading to take the first step?
You don't have to have all the answers before getting started. Whether you're working toward a personal goal, preparing for additional education, or workforce training, improving everyday skills, or simply wanting to learn something new, we're here to help.

Contact Crawford County Volunteers for Literacy today to learn more about our free programs and how to get started. 

Whether you’re looking for a new job, helping your child with homework, learning English, or simply looking to feel more confident using a computer, learning doesn’t just end when you leave school.

For nearly 40 years, Crawford County Volunteers for Literacy (CCVL) has provided free adult education services to adults throughout Crawford County. Every learner reaches out to us with a different story and individualized goals. Some are looking to prepare for additional education or workforce training. Others want to improve reading, writing, math, or digital skills they use every day.  Many want to learn something new to make big changes in their life.

Adult Education isn’t about where you start.  It’s all centered around your goals and where you want to go.

If any of these circumstances sound familiar, adult education may be a helpful step toward reaching your goals.

1. You’re Working Toward a New Career or Better Job
Learning new skills can definitely open new doors.

Many Employees look for applicants who are comfortable reading workforce information, completing online applications, communicating through email, and continuing to learn on the job. Some careers also require certifications or additional training.

Adult education can help you strengthen the foundational skills needed to prepare for those opportunities. Whether your goal is finding a new job, earning a promotion, or preparing for workforce training, building your skills today can help you prepare for tomorrow.

2. You Want to Feel More Comfortable Using Technology
Technology has become part of everyday life.

Applying for jobs, scheduling doctor’s appointments, checking email, paying bills, and communicating with schools often happen online. For many adults, technology continues to change faster than they can keep up.

CCVL offers digital literacy support to help adult build confidence using computers, navigating the internet, completing online forms, and using everyday technology.

Learning technology doesn’t require previous experiences. Every learner starts somewhere, and we’re here to help wherever that point is.

3. You Want to Support Your Children or Grandchildren
Children benefit when the adults in their lives enjoy learning too.

You don’t have to know all the answers to make a difference. Reading together, helping with homework, talking about school, simply showing that learning matters can have a huge impact on a child’s education.

Many adults tell us they want to feel more confident helping a child read, understand school assignments, or communicate with teacher. Adult education can help build those skills while creating positive learning experiences for the whole family.

As CCVL continues expanding our family literacy efforts, we’re exciting to provide more opportunities that help families learn and grow together.

4. You’re Ready to Continue Your Education
Many Adults decide to return to learning later in life.

Some are preparing for their Arkansas High School Diploma. Others want to attend college, complete workforce training, or earn certifications for a new career.

No matter what your educational goals are, building stronger reading, writing, math, and digital skills creates a foundations for a successful future.

It is never too late to continue learning.

5. You Want More Confidence in Everyday Life
Adult education isn’t only about school learning.

The skills we use every day matter just as much.

Reading instructions, filling out forms, understanding mail, creating a budget, communicating at work, or learning how to use a new device are all examples of skills that make everyday life a little easier.

Every learner has difference goals and every goal is important.

Learning Looks Different for Everyone
At Crawford County Volunteers for Literacy, we believe learning should be individualized and meet our learners where they are.

That is why we provide individualized instruction based on each learner’s goals rather than following a one-size-fits-all program. Whether someone wants to improve reading, strengthen math skills, learn English as a Second Language (ESL), build digital literacy skills, or prepare for future educational oppurtunities, our staff and volunteer tutors work together to create a plan that fits their needs.

For nearly four decades, CCVL has helped adults throughout Crawford County continue learning, build confidence, and work toward the goals that matter most to them.

Ready to Learn More?
If you’ve been thinking about continuing your education or building new skills, we’re love to help answer your questions.

Visit our Enrollment page to learn how to becoming a student, explore our other Resources to learn more about adult education, or visit our Volunteer page if you’re interested in helping adults reach their goals through one-on-one tutoring.

You can also contact our office at (479) 474-4594 or stop by by 2925 Alma Highway, Suite 9, Van Buren, AR to learn more about the free adult education services available through CCVL.

No matter your goal, taking the first step is often the hardest. We’re here to help! 

Many are surprised to learn that adult literacy and adult education services are available right here in Crawford County. 

At Crawford County Volunteers for Literacy (CCVL), we work with adults who want to improve their reading, writing, math, English language, and digital skills. But our program and services even exceed beyond this. We tailor our programs and services to the needs of the community to best service those that can benefit from our services. Many come to us because they want to earn their Arkansas High School diploma, but other may want help to study for their driver's test, reading forms, applying for jobs, using a computer, or building skills they never had a chance to learn in school. 

No matter where our learners are starting, our mission is simple: help adults gain the skills and confidence they need to reach their personal, educational, and employment goals. 

What is Adult Literacy?
Adult Literacy goes beyond just reading text or books. 

Literacy affects many parts of everyday life, including:
- Filling out job applications
- Reading workplace instructions
- Understanding medical information
- Helping children with homework
- Managing finances
- Using email and online services
- Completing training programs

Many adults have strengths in one area but need support in another. Every learner has different goals and our services are tailored to meet those needs. 

Reading and Writing Support
Reading and writing skills impact almost every aspect of daily life. Some adults come to CCVL because they want to improve their reading comprehension skills while others come to strengthen spelling, writing, or communication skills. We partner our learners at any level with volunteers and focus on practical skills that can he used at home, in the workspace, and throughout the community. 

Improving literacy skills can help adult learners feel more prepared to pursue new opportunities, continue their education, or reach personal goals that may have felt out of reach in the past. 

Math Skills for Everyday Life
Math is another area where many of our adult learners seek support.

Our adult education services can help learners strengthen skills such as:
- Basic math
- Fractions and decimals
- Measurement
- Budgeting
- Workplace Math
- GED Preparation Math

Whether someone wants to improve their confidence with numbers or prepare for future education and training opportunities, math instruction can be customized to fit their individual goals. 

GED Preparation and Academic Support
​Many adults learners contact us because they want to earn their Arkansas High School Diploma or prepare for additional education and training programs.

While CCVL does not administer the GED test, we can help individuals build foundational academic skills and connect them with resources that support their educational goals. 

Preparing for a GED often involves strengthening reading, language, and math skills. Our staff and volunteers can help learners identify areas for improvement and develop an individualized plan for moving forward. 

English as a Second Language (ESL)
CCVL also provides support for adults learning English.  Our English as a Second Language (ESL) services helps learners strengthen skills in:
- Speaking
- Listening
- Reading
- Writing

Learning English can help individuals communicate more confidently at work, support their children's education, prepare for citizenship, and participate more fully in the community and the resources available to them. Our goal is to provide a welcoming environment where adults can practice and continue building their skills. 

Digital Literacy and Technology Skills
Technology in this day and age is part of everyday life. 

Many jobs require online applications or medical forms. Medical providers offer online portals. Schools communicate through digital platforms. Banking, shopping, and communication often happens online as well. 

For adults that grew up without computers or access to support, technology can feel extremely overwhelming. 

CCVL offers support with digital literacy skills such as:
- Basic computer use
- Email
- Internet searches
- Online forms
- Job applications
- Digital communication tools

Building digital literacy skills can help adults access opportunities that are increasingly available online. 

Learning That Fits Individual Goals
One of the things that makes adult learning different is that every learner has a unique reason for seeking help.

Some adults want to:
- Improve employment opportunities 
- Prepare for workforce training
- Read with their children and grandchildren
- Build confidence using technology
- Strengthen English Language Skills
- Reach educational goals

There is no single path, and there is no age limit to learning!

Adult Education in Crawford County
Crawford County Volunteers for Literacy has served adults and families in our community for nearly 40 years. 

As a nonprofit organization based in Van Buren, Arkansas, we are committed to providing accessible adult education and literacy services to individuals throughout Crawford County and surrounding areas. 

Our services are made possible through the support of volunteers, community partners, donors, and organizations that believe education creates opportunities for individuals, families, and communities. 

How You Can Get Involved
If you are interested in improving your skills, we encourage you to reach out to learn more about our programs and services. 

You can:
- Learn about enrollment opportunities
- Explore volunteer opportunities
- Attend a workshop or community event
- Connect with our staff to discuss your goals

Whether you are looking for adult literacy services, adult education programs, ESL support, digital literacy instruction, or information about volunteering, we would love to talk with you. 

Ready to Learn More?
Visit our Enrollment Page to learn about becoming a student.
Interested in giving back? Visit our Volunteer Page to learn how you can support adult learners in Crawford County.
You can also contact our office at (479)474-4594, email [email protected], or visit us at 2925 Alma Highway, Suite 9, Van Buren Arkansas. 

Every learning journey starts with a first step. If you're ready to explore your options, we're here to help!