FAQs – Literacy Gulf Coast

Questions about LCGC

What is LCGC?

Literacy Council Gulf Coast (LCGC) is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization dedicated to improving English language and literacy skills in our community. The organization’s mission is “to assist adults and children to acquire the literacy skills necessary to improve their quality of life.” Headquartered in Bonita Springs, the Council maintains a strong presence throughout southwest Florida in Fort Myers, North Naples, Lehigh Acres, Cape Coral, and Labelle.

How long have you been offering services in SWFL?

LCGC is proud to celebrate almost 30 years in the community! This organization had been helping students improve their literacy skills since 1989.

Whom do you serve?

Literacy Council Gulf Coast provides services for adults and children. Although most of our adult students are immigrants, we also serve native English speaking students who struggle with learning and wish to improve their literacy skills. Students in LCGC programs come from all countries in South and Central America, Haiti, France, Germany, Albania, Romania, Spain, Lithuania, Ukraine, Russia, Turkey, Slovakia, Greece, China, Viet Nam, South Korea, Thailand, and others.

Where are you located?

LCGC is located at 26820 Old 41 Rd. in Bonita Springs. However, we offer classes in many locations throughout Southwest Florida. Check out our classes tab to find a location near you.

How does LCGC receive its funding?

As a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, LCGC relies heavily on corporate sponsors, grants, and individual giving. LCGC receives no government funding for its programs! Because LCGC offers classes to students at no cost, it must rely on different methods to generate income. 48 percent of the organization’s funds are received from private, individual donors or local sponsorships. 27 percent is received from the United Way for program and operating support, and 19 percent from various foundations and granting organizations. Fundraising events, such as the monthly thrift store, Annual Breakfast Meeting, and art auctions account for 3 percent of total income and the remaining 3 percent is generated by book and software sales throughout the year.

Where can donations be mailed?

Literacy Council Gulf Coast
Attn: Susan Holman, President & CEO
26820 Old 41
Bonita Springs, FL 34135

How to Get Involved

How do I become a volunteer/tutor?

Volunteers are the backbone of the organization. Volunteers and tutors contributed time that was valued in excess of $2.2 million, representing over 92,000 hours of work. LCGC provides intensive, certified tutor training to those wishing to mentor and work with students. Volunteers may tutor students enrolled in our adult classes or the Moms & Tots® Family Literacy Program. Since we maintain a strong presence across Southwest Florida, programs are offered in a variety of locations in each city. To learn more, please call our office at 239-676-5202 or email us at susan@literacygulfcoast.org.

How do I become a student?

If you, or someone you know, could benefit from improved literacy and language skills please contact us! We will be happy to discuss our programs in depth and provide guidance to find the program that best suits your needs! To enroll, please call our office at 239-676-5202 or email us at susan@literacygulfcoast.org.

How much does it cost?

On average, it costs LCGC less than $200 to teach one student English for one year. Because we are dedicated to serving those most in need in our community, all programs are offered free of charge to students. Students receive tutoring, materials, supplies, and any associated textbooks or workbooks needed for their course.

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