ORGANIZATIONAL HIGHLIGHTS

In 2021 and 2022, IHDF took steps to address the disproportionate impact of the pandemic years on Dreamers and the communities we serve. While we still have much to uncover about learning loss, inequities highlighted by virtual learning, and the social-emotional consequences of this unprecedented time, we identified three areas of need that could be addressed immediately across the network: Early Literacy Intervention, highquality Social Emotional Learning (SEL) programs, and, through a $1.5 million grant from the Department of Justice, network-wide Mentorship Programs with an emphasis on anti-bullying education.

We believe these three areas of program support will help Dreamers across the nation not only recover from recent crises, but thrive in their schools and communities with new tools and strategies for success.

AmeriCorps VISTA Members Make an Immediate Impact

In mid-2022, IHDF finalized a grant with AmeriCorps VISTA that enabled the hire of 11 AmeriCorps VISTA service members to serve at 9 affiliate sites. The award is valued at more than $200,000 per year and represents an immediate capacity-building opportunity for IHDF National and Affiliate sites.

Recruitment for VISTA positions is expected to be complete by late summer 2023

$225 Billion

Estimated dollars lost in workforce productivity and tax revenue due to low literacy

43%

Percentage of adults with the lowest literacy levels living in poverty

72%

Percentage of children whose parents have low literacy skills (and will likely be at the lowest reading levels themselves)

Generational Inequality Incarceration

75%

Percentage of state prison inmates either classified as low literate or lacking a high school education