Manatee Literacy Council Receives Grant from the William G. and Marie Selby Foundation

April 17, 2024 – Sarasota

The Manatee Literacy Council is thrilled to announce a generous grant from the William G. and
Marie Selby Foundation. This vital funding will allow the Council to significantly enhance its
Adult English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) programs by providing laptops for
in-person classes and acquiring educational software to support continued learning outside the
classroom.

“We are incredibly grateful to the William G. and Marie Selby Foundation for their investment in
our ESOL programs,” said Michelle Desveaux McLean, Executive Director of the Manatee
Literacy Council. “This grant will empower our students with the technology they need to
succeed in their language learning journey.”

The new laptops will equip adult learners with the tools to develop their English language and
digital literacy skills. Participants will benefit from improved access to online learning resources,
allowing them to practice their English skills independently and reinforce classroom learning.
Additionally, the grant will fund the purchase of educational software specifically designed to
support adult learners, providing a personalized and effective learning experience.
The Manatee Literacy Council plays a critical role in Manatee County, providing free and
confidential literacy programs to empower adults. This grant from the Selby Foundation will
directly impact a growing segment of the community, helping non-native English speakers gain
the language skills they need to navigate daily life, pursue educational opportunities, and
contribute more fully to our community.

About the Manatee Literacy Council
The Manatee Literacy Council is a volunteer-driven non-profit organization dedicated to
increasing adult literacy in Manatee County. Through one-on-one tutoring and group classes,
MLC provides a supportive environment for adults to learn essential reading, writing, and
English language skills. Their mission is “To empower Manatee County residents to
independence through literacy”. More information about their programs and volunteer
opportunities can be found at www.manatee-literacy.org.