On September 16–17, Academy of Hope (AoH) learners and staff joined the Coalition on Adult Basic Education (COABE) for Flood the Hill: A National Advocacy Event. Held during Adult Education and Family Literacy (AEFL) Week, this annual gathering unites learners, educators, and advocates from across the country to speak directly with members of Congress about the importance of adult education.
Day One: Building Confidence and Skills
The experience began with intensive advocacy training, where AoH learners prepared as “Student Ambassadors” to share their personal stories. The training equipped them with tools to communicate the value of adult education and the urgent need for sustained funding.
Day Two: Taking the Message to Congress
Learners then participated in a Legislative Briefing, From Learning to Earning: How Adult Education Strengthens Communities and the Workforce, where national leaders underscored the role adult education plays in workforce readiness and community resilience.
AoH learners and staff also had the opportunity to meet with Sen. Jack Reed of Rhode Island. During this meeting, they shared how AoH has transformed their lives and pressed the importance of protecting federal funding for adult education.
- “Cutting the budget only hinders learners—their growth, their personal growth,” said Student Support Specialist Porsha James. “We need the money … It provides programming for them, builds their life skills, their confidence … they’re breaking generational curses.”
- Ward 8 learner Linda H. grew emotional as she shared her fears that budget cuts could derail her future. “We really need to protect the funds because I really want to draw a path behind me for the community and for economic growth.”
Lifting Voices for Change
For AoH learners, the event was about more than advocacy—it was about being heard. They gained not only the skills to amplify their voices, but also the experience of using them on a national stage to advocate for change.
We extend our gratitude to COABE for creating this platform for adult learners and educators. Together, we continue to push for investment in adult education so that learners everywhere can achieve their goals and strengthen their communities.