The Decatur County Certified Literate Community Program (CLCP) is a state initiative promoting and supporting literacy efforts through local community collaborative organizations. The state level program acts as a marketing agent for literacy, encourages community mobilization and certifies local efforts based on state-established goals.

This results in improved literacy levels in employees, families and entire communities. CLCP is an innovative business/education/community partnership that addresses Family Literacy. The Decatur County CLCP, known as L.I.F.E. (Learning Is For Everyone), is funded by local private and corporate donations and foundation gifts.

In 1999, the percentage of adults over the age of 16 in Decatur County was 39%. This is in contrast to the national percentage of 25% and the state percentage of 32%. The Bainbridge Decatur County Chamber of Commerce and local business persons recognized the need for an awareness campaign to improve the level of literacy in the county.

Since 1999, the program has helped increase the literacy level of over 2500 people. The ten-year goal is 3706, which is 50% of the 7411 citizens who do not hold a high school diploma. These people have received a GED, increased their literacy levels or learned to read.

Goals
*Offer skilled workers to new and existing industries
*Increase the number of students graduating from high school
*Offer citizens the opportunity to enjoy a literate life Programs

The LIFE Center (behind Miles Realty on Shotwell Street) offers reading classes for adults.
Classes are free and held on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. GED Classes are held at the
Adult Learning Center (248-2210) and Bainbridge College (248-2552).

Contact: Debbie McIntyre, Director
P.O. Box 1061, Bainbridge, GA 39818
229-243-0600   eMail