Our Mission: Bridging the Literacy Divide

What is the NMLC?

The Ni’jah Monifa Literacy Center and Reading Project was created to honor the life of my only granddaughter, Ni’jah Monifa Johnson, who suddenly passed away at four years old. Her spirit lives through our services to teach students and adults to read. (Dr. Shelley).

At the Ni'Jah Monifa Literacy Center, we believe that literacy is the foundation of opportunity. For too long, underserved communities have faced barriers to educational success, leading to cycles of poverty and limited opportunities. Our mission is to combat illiteracy by offering tailored programs that address the unique challenges faced by minority populations, particularly African American youth and adults.

Did You Know?

• 71% of African American children in low-income households are at a disadvantage in developing literacy skills.
• Only 18% of African American 4th graders in the U.S. are reading at a proficient level.
• 35% of African American adults in urban areas have low literacy skills, limiting their employment and economic mobility.

We are working to change these statistics and give people the tools they need for a better future. The Ni’jah Monifa Literacy Center is committed to providing comprehensive literacy programs and resources that inspire and educate. We seek to aggressively improve reading skills in children and adults in underserved communities and strive to foster a love for reading and learning, equipping our students with the skills they need to compete and provide for themselves in today's ever-changing world.