Greene County Literacy Coalition Plans to Expand Programs and Tutoring with  UDWI REMC Community Fund Grant

BLOOMFIELD, Ind. (Oct. 16, 2025)— The Greene County Literacy Coalition — dedicated to improving literacy and education within the southern Indiana region — was selected as last quarter’s feature organization by the UDWI REMC Community Fund Committee. In September, the Coalition received a $1,280 grant, which it plans to use to expand its literacy programs, support tutor training, and enhance community initiatives. 

Founded in 1988, the Coalition’s mission is to improve literacy in the area and help residents with access to essential educational resources and opportunities. Since its beginning, the Coalition has continued to develop programs to raise awareness about illiteracy in Greene County and across the nation.

The organization recruits, trains, and matches volunteer tutors with students, or learners, seeking to improve their reading and literacy skills. Subjects offered include reading and writing, basic math, and English as a second language. Additionally, each program taught is personalized to an individual, allowing them to advance at their own pace.

“As part of our initiative to create environments where all students can thrive, we strive to complement and expand the work happening in classrooms,” said Lexie Hamil-Arnold, Greene County Literacy Coalition Coordinator. She continues, “We understand that not everyone learns at the same pace. As such, we hope to be a supportive resource for teachers and students in our community, providing additional tools, materials, and opportunities outside of the classroom— and even beyond the classroom as we promote literacy and learning for community members of all ages.”

In the last several years, the Greene County Literacy Coalition’s efforts have helped hundreds of local residents improve their literacy skills, advance in their careers, and become more self-sufficient through continued education. Even so, the organization knows there is still work to be done. According to the National Literacy Institute, 43 million people are still categorized as illiterate in the United States, with 54% of adults having literacy skills below a 6th-grade level.

“To continue our mission and create new opportunities for our community members, collaboration among local organizations is vital,” stated Lexie Hamil-Arnold when asked about how the UDWI REMC Community Fund Inc. grant could help the organization. She continued, “By working together, we’re able to align our efforts, maximize resources, and ensure that critical resources reach those who need them— creating lasting, positive change.”

The donation from UDWI REMC’s Community Fund will assist The Coalition in expanding its literacy programs, supporting tutor training, and providing essential learning materials to help more Greene County residents improve their reading and language skills. 

Those looking to get involved with the Greene County Literacy Coalition can volunteer as tutors or participate in one of the multiple Language Learning Community sessions that happen throughout the year. These sessions encourage learners to practice reading, writing, listening, and speaking in both the English and Spanish language. Additionally, the Coalition’s “Wine and Cheese in the Stacks” fundraiser is planned for April 2026, (official date to be determined) and is currently seeking volunteers to lead English and Spanish Language Learning Community sessions across Greene County. To learn more, visit the Bloomfield Library website at https://bloomfield.lib.in.us/about-literacy.html.

To make an impact in your local community and donate to organizations such as the Coalition, UDWI REMC members can participate in the RoundUp Program, which allows cooperative members to round up to the nearest whole dollar on their electric bills. The money accumulated is then awarded to various nonprofit organizations through the Community Fund, Inc.— determined by the UDWI REMC Community Fund Board (separate from UDWI REMC staff and Board of Directors).

The latest round of UDWI REMC Community Fund grant recipients in September included: Center Point & Community Volunteer Fire Company, Inc., Crossroads Ranch, Inc., Greene County General Hospital Foundation, Inc., Greene County Humane Society, Inc., Greene County Literacy Coalition, Greene County Long Term Recovery Group, Health First Greene County/Food as Medicine Program, Lawrence County Cancer Patient Services, Lyons Community Food Pantry, Monroe County Humane Association, PACE Community Action Agency, Stone City alliance for REcovery & Hope, Inc., and Worthington Lions Club. 

The UDWI REMC Community Fund, Inc. is now accepting applications for its next grant cycle. All nonprofit businesses in UDWI REMC’s service area are encouraged to apply. Please visit www.udwiremc.com to learn more about the program and to start an application.