Atlanta Metro Literacy Network

Beth Odom
P.O. Box 1537
Atlanta, Georgia 30301
Phone (404) 818-7336
FAX (404) 818-7322

Year Incorporated

1994

Vision and/or Mission

As a metro-wide organization of literacy providers, support agencies and advocates, Metro-Atlanta Literacy Network seeks to faciitate a collaborative effort among Atlanta area literacy advocates to promote our common goal of a literate Georgia.

History

Several literacy service providers recognized that there was a need to share information, challenges and resources among the many and varied Atlanta literacy agencies. The DeKalb County Library compiled a list of local non-profit and library-sponsored literacy programs. Representatives from these programs began meeting at the Clarkston Library with the purpose of networking and increasing community awareness of literacy needs.

Founding Leaders

Atlanta MLN operated as an informal network from 1989 until its incorporation in 1994. From 1989-1993, the DeKalb County Public Library received several grants from the U.S. Department of Education. Two of the grant objectives were to increase public awareness of literacy needs and establish a community literacy organization. During these years, DeKalb Library generously loaned Atlanta MLN "office" space and part-time assistance to aid with MLN projects.

Early Successes

Held community fairs and participated in other highly visible event to build community awareness.

Compiled an extensive list of local literacy service providers.

Began the process of regular dialogue among Atlanta-based literacy service providers.

Established a newsletter.

Provided a time during the early monthly meetings for each organization to highlight its purpose and accomplishments.

Early Challenges

Getting providers to join the coalition.

Turning Point

The coalition turned a corner in 1994 when it adopted by-laws, appointed a board and was granted incorporation by the state of Georgia.

Current Size

Eight of the largest literacy providers in metro Atlanta are represented in the network. Others participate in major events.

Volunteer staff.

No budget.

No formal office space.

Recent Accomplishments

In partnership with our local PBS affiliate, we have for two years conducted a televised "Volunteer-A-Thon" which raised general literacy awareness throughout the state and generated several hundred potential volunteers for coalition service providers.

Reorganization initiative: We are in the process of redefining our coalition goals and objectives.

Next Steps - Managerial

Add members to the coalition.

Develop a strategic plan for the next five years.

Next Steps - Programmatic

None at this time.

Advice to Other Coalitions

Be sure to enlist solid agreement from all stakeholders before committing the entire coalition to a course of action.

Last Updated

April 2001