About Us
Our Story
Aquinas Literacy Center is a community-based organization located in McKinley Park on the southwest side of Chicago. Since 1996, Aquinas has served the immigrant community by offering free individualized instruction in the English language. Using trained, volunteer tutors, Aquinas serves over 200 learners annually. Learners participate in weekly tutoring sessions, conversation groups, writing workshops, book clubs, computer-based instruction and computer literacy workshops. We are sponsored by the Adrian Dominican Sisters.
Our Mission
Responding to a critical societal need, Aquinas Literacy Center empowers adults by providing English as a Second Language instruction through individualized tutoring in an environment that respects and reverences individuals. We enable learners to transform their lives by acquiring skills to become successful parents, productive workers and responsible citizens.
Our Work
As a beacon in the community, our atmosphere of mutual teaching and learning brings together diverse people of various ages, cultures and socioeconomic backgrounds. Aquinas Literacy Center truly unifies the community and bridges the cultural divide in the McKinley Park community and surrounding areas.
Who We Serve
Aquinas Literacy Center has served people from all over the world, right here in McKinley Park. Our goal is to provide the best individual instruction, no matter who you are or where you are from.
Our Volunteers
Our dedicated volunteers offer 90-minutes of weekly one-on-one instruction to guide learners to greater English-language proficiency. They serve as teachers, mentors, coaches and facilitators to assist learners in advancing in English and achieving their personal life goals. All instruction is in English.
Our Partners
Through various funding partners and community partners, Aquinas Literacy Center is able to carry out our mission in McKinley Park and improve our community and the lives of students. Learn more about our partners here.
