West Michigan Works! has named Literacy Center of West Michigan as its 2025 Partner of the Year. The award recognizes the nonprofit’s commitment to adult literacy, workforce readiness and economic mobility across the region. The Partner of the Year Award was presented during the 2025 West Michigan Works! annual board meeting on Dec. 8, 2025 at Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park.
Founded in 1986, the Literacy Center of West Michigan is one of the largest community-based adult literacy organizations in the country. Each year, they provide free support to nearly 1,300 adult learners, offering services such as one-on-one literacy coaching, English as a Second Language (ESL) instruction, customized workplace literacy education and Michigan’s largest family literacy initiative.
The Literacy Center of West Michigan has a pivotal role in bridging adult education and workforce development. In 2024, it launched the Integrated Education and Training (IET) program in partnership with West Michigan Works!, Corewell Health, Grand Rapids Community College and the West Michigan Center for Arts + Technology. Developed in response to employer needs, the initiative combines contextualized language instruction with technical job training in high-demand health care fields.
Through IET, more than 80 English language learners have earned industry-recognized credentials for careers such as certified nursing assistant, pharmacy technician, and medical coder.
“The Literacy Center of West Michigan is a vital partner in building a strong, inclusive workforce,” said Tasha Evans, talent solutions director, West Michigan Works!. “Their innovative programs integrate language learning with career training to create real economic mobility for individuals and families. Our partnership is a model for how adult education and workforce development can work together to strengthen our region.”
Through a strong and ongoing partnership with West Michigan Works!, the Literacy Center supports mutual referrals, co-serves clients, and actively contributes to regional workforce solutions. Notably, they co-developed the Welcome Back Center to help internationally trained health professionals re-entering the workforce in the United States.
Literacy Center of West Michigan’s career development programs extend beyond technical skills. Learners also receive career advising, resume support, interview preparation, networking practice and assistance with navigating community-based training and employment resources.
“The team at West Michigan Works! is not only highly competent but is mission driven,” said Wendy Falb, executive director, Literacy Center of West Michigan. “They recognize how valuable partnerships are with organizations like the Literacy Center, for extending and deepening their mission. Together we are leading innovation and national best practice on aligning adult education and workforce development.”
