Overview
Because literacy is often a two-generation issue, the Trust supports programs that develop the literacy skills of the entire family. These programs benefit children and the adult caregiver by equipping the adult with skills to support a child’s learning while also promoting the adult’s own literacy skill development.
Eligible Project Types
The Trust will fund projects that:
- Meet the federal definition of Family Literacy by integrating early childhood and adult education, parenting education, and structured parent-child learning activities.
Eligible Organizations
The Trust will consider proposals for the types of projects listed above from:
- Family Learning Centers; or
- Nonprofit organizations offering Family Learning programming
Size and Duration of Grants
Grants in this focus area will generally start at $250,000 and may reach more than $1M for larger organizations demonstrating large-scale impact. Grant durations typically range from 1-3 years.
Please note, the grant size and duration listed here are meant as a general guide. A Kenan Grant Officer will work closely with organizations advancing to later stages of our grant process to tailor grant requests if needed.
Featured Grant in Family Literacy: Virginia Literacy Foundation
The Kenan Trust awarded a grant to the Virginia Literacy Foundation to establish five regional preschool Family Learning Centers (FLCs) in partnership with Richmond Public Schools. These FLCs offer a strengths-based, multi-generational approach to literacy that includes integrated programs for both children and adults. Each FLC serves as a neighborhood hub for multi-generational learning. Preschool parents are active partners and participants in their child’s education while also having the opportunity to build their own skills in reading, writing, and computer skills. The Centers also offer parenting support for adults, activities for children, and structured learning time together for parents and children.
