Member Spotlight: scaleLIT - Empowering Adult Learners for Success

Founded by a grassroots collective of adult education providers from Chicago’s south and west sides, scaleLIT (formerly the Chicago Citywide Literacy Coalition) supports adult education organizations by securing resources and training to help underserved learners achieve economic success.

Early August Chicago Jobs Council site visit to scaleLit, hosted by Robert Guzman External Affairs Director.

Bridging Education and Workforce Development

Under the 2014 Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), scaleLIT has focused on connecting adult education with workforce development. Their Career Pathways Navigators, introduced in 2018, have been instrumental in promoting adult education and connecting thousands to workforce services. This innovative approach earned them the One-Stop Operator (OSO) contract from the Chicago Cook Workforce Partnership, renewed in July 2024.

Impact and Inclusion

scaleLIT's mission is to ensure that all residents, regardless of skill level, have access to workforce development programs. By partnering with American Job Centers and community-based organizations, they ensure inclusive access to vital services. Their referral platform in AirTable, launched in October 2023, has already facilitated over 7,300 referrals across Cook County.

Navigators play a critical role in guiding individuals through complex systems, making workforce services more accessible, especially for those facing significant barriers. As one participant shared, “They supported me with many things, and I am very grateful these types of organizations exist. They really care.”

A Culture of Collaboration

ScaleLIT's commitment to equity and inclusion is central to its mission. Internally, it emphasizes collaboration and cross-departmental learning, fostering a culture that effectively supports its partners and ensures all voices are heard.

Partnership with CJC

Over the years, scaleLIT’s collaboration with the Chicago Jobs Council (CJC) has been invaluable, providing them with crucial information and inspiration to drive their work forward. They advise new CJC members to engage deeply with underserved adult learners' needs and build strong relationships within the organization to enhance workforce development outcomes.