A Lifeline for Rural Missourians Faces Sudden Disruption
For over three decades, the Laclede Literacy Council has played a vital role in supporting rural Missourians who are striving to improve their lives through education. The organization’s mission has expanded over the years to include helping individuals pass the HiSET high school equivalency exam, become U.S. citizens, and develop media literacy skills. These efforts have made a significant difference in the lives of countless people across six counties.
In recent years, the council had a team of 18 tutors who received living allowances, allowing them to dedicate substantial time to their work. This support enabled the program to serve nearly 100 clients in 2025. However, this progress was abruptly disrupted when the center learned it would lose $249,000 in funding from AmeriCorps for the 2025-2026 grant cycle. This loss threatens to eliminate the entire workforce, leaving the nonprofit in a difficult position.
Dr. Carol Barsby, the center’s executive director, described the impact as a shock. She explained that the decision came after a series of assurances from ServMO, the distributing agency for AmeriCorps in Missouri. “We were confident we were okay,” she said. “But on July 2, I got an email that said, ‘Sorry, you weren’t chosen for a grant this year. Have a nice holiday weekend.’”
Barsby is now exploring other funding opportunities, but the sudden change means drastic adjustments for the nonprofit and its community. The loss of tutors affects not only the staff but also the people they serve, many of whom rely on the program for essential skills and support.
The Role of the Laclede Literacy Council in Rural Communities
The Laclede Literacy Council operates out of a small shopping center in Lebanon, a town with a population of about 15,000. Once known for its manufacturing industry, the area has seen a shift in job requirements, with many positions now demanding higher levels of education. For example, some of the local boat factories now require digital and technical skills, making it harder for individuals without a high school diploma to qualify for these jobs.
When someone seeks help at the center, they begin with a proficiency test to determine their skill level. They are then matched with a tutor who works with them multiple times a week at no cost. Some individuals attend in person, while others receive virtual support, including employees of a sheriff’s department who need additional training to meet hiring requirements.
Tammy Sloan, a former employee who lost her job due to lacking a high school diploma, found support through the program. After receiving tutoring, she passed her math HiSET subtest and now volunteers at the center. Her experience highlights the emotional journey many individuals face when seeking help, as well as the sense of community and belonging that the program fosters.
Daniel Ford, another individual who benefited from the program, shared his story. He dropped out of school early and spent time in prison before being required to attend the literacy council as part of his probation. Today, he is a tutor and working toward passing the HiSET. His transformation illustrates the power of education and support in changing lives.
Funding Cuts and Their Impact
The funding cuts come at a critical time for the Laclede Literacy Council. According to Barsby, the program was part of a larger pool of funding allocated by AmeriCorps to the Missouri Department of Economic Development. While applicants go through a vetting process, the final decisions are made by the Missouri Community Service Commission, also known as ServMO.
Barsby received feedback stating that the literacy council did not adequately explain organizational capability, member experience, and supervision. Despite meeting performance goals by more than 100% each year, the program was denied funding. This situation raises questions about the criteria used for funding decisions and the impact on communities that rely on such programs.
Barsby emphasized the importance of the program, noting that it supports 15 jobs and provides critical services to individuals in need. “I understand budget cuts well, but when you cut your budget, do you cut the entire food budget or reduce it slightly from each category?” she asked.
Looking Ahead
Despite the challenges, Barsby and the tutors remain committed to their mission. Currently, there are 99 active participants, and the program will be able to serve about a third of them. Volunteers continue to support those they are working with, ensuring that no one is left behind.
While unpaid volunteers could be an option, it comes with its own set of challenges. Serving fewer people may lead to lower quality of life for those affected, fewer employees in local businesses, and fewer opportunities in rural areas. The loss of the program also means fewer second chances for individuals like Ford, who credits the center with giving him the opportunity to turn his life around.
Barsby remains hopeful, stating that the center will find a way to keep operating, even if it looks different in the future. “We will keep something going,” she said. “I don’t know that it will look like it used to look, but we will be here and we will apply for other grants and see what’s out there.”