Ruth Johnson Colvin, Founder of Literacy Volunteers of America, has died at 107

Ruth Johnson Colvin, the founder of Literacy Volunteers of America and a trailblazer in the fight against illiteracy, has passed away at the age of 107.

Colvin died on Sunday, August 18 2024 in Syracuse, New York, as confirmed by ProLiteracy, the nonprofit organization that emerged from the merger of Literacy Volunteers and Laubach Literacy in 2002.

She remained active on the organization’s board of directors until her death.

Colvin launched Literacy Volunteers of America in 1962 after discovering that 11,000 people in the Syracuse area were illiterate, according to the 1960 census.

Motivated by a passion for reading and a desire to address this hidden issue, Colvin began her work in her own basement, gradually expanding her organization across the United States and into several other countries.

Her innovative approach to teaching reading through volunteer efforts made a lasting impact on countless lives.

Over her lifetime, Colvin received numerous accolades, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom, awarded by President George W. Bush in 2006, and induction into the National Women’s Hall of Fame in 1993.

She also earned the President’s National Volunteer Action Award from President Ronald Reagan in 1987.

Colvin’s dedication to literacy and volunteerism was also reflected in her writing. She authored several books, including her memoir, My Travels Through Life, Love and Literacy, published in 2020 when she was 103.

Her life’s work was evident in the hundreds of letters she received from tutors, students, and supporters, which she treasured as a testament to the difference she made in the lives of others.

ProLiteracy honored Colvin’s legacy with an online tribute, acknowledging her profound influence on the organization and her unwavering belief that literacy is a fundamental right.

“We are humbled to have been able to learn from her for so long,” the tribute read. “Ruth willingly shared her wisdom with ProLiteracy staff, always encouraging us to continue our fight to improve adult literacy.”