International Literacy Day is held annually on September 8th to celebrate and promote the importance of literacy in building education, peace, and sustainable development.

Literacy is a vital human right, but according to the United Nations, about 739 million children and adults around the world lack basic literacy skills in 2024. At the same time, 4 in 10 children are not reaching minimum proficiency in reading, and 272 million children and adolescents were out of school in 2023.

Literacy plays an essential role in building quality education. Check out the National Center on Improving Literacy for more information, resources, and ways to get involved, as well as UNESCO and Save the Children. Spring Cedars is always looking for opportunities to make a difference. Please reach out if you would like to partner on a project.