Beyond the Diploma: Building Real Literacy and Lifelong Readiness through FM2U’s Signature Six Programs

A recent article from The 74 Million,  “Many Young Adults Are Barely Literate, Yet Earned a High School Diploma”, shines a light on a troubling truth: many young people graduate from high school without the reading and writing skills needed to succeed in college, the workforce, or life.

At From Me 2 U, Inc., this reality reinforces our mission, to protect and empower the future by supporting youth, families, and aspiring professionals through evidence-based practices, research, and policy advocacy. Our Signature Six Programs were designed to close the gaps that traditional systems often miss, creating continuous opportunities for learning, growth, and real-world application from early childhood through adulthood.

The Best of Me: Planting the Seeds of Literacy

Early literacy is the foundation of lifelong success. Within The Best of Me program, our R U Ready 4 Kindergarten initiative helps families create language-rich environments where children build vocabulary, communication, and comprehension before ever stepping into a classroom.

Inventing Me: Strengthening Reading Through Creativity

In grades 3–5, Inventing Me uses STREAM (Science, Technology, Reading, Engineering, Art, and Math) to weave reading and writing into hands-on exploration. When children see literacy as part of discovery, not just a subject, they gain confidence and comprehension that lasts.

Working On Me: Building Communication and Critical Thinking

Middle school students in Working On Me develop emotional literacy alongside academic skills. Through journaling, reflection, and team-based projects, they learn to communicate their thoughts clearly, a critical bridge between reading words and understanding ideas.

Choose 2 Be U: Preparing Youth for the Real World

High school participants in Choose 2 Be U combine workforce readiness with leadership coaching. This includes writing résumés, crafting presentations, and building digital portfolios, practical literacy that transforms classroom learning into career readiness.

Becoming Me: Professional Growth Through Writing and Communication

College students in Becoming Me learn to express themselves professionally through reports, grant proposals, and reflective writing. These experiences build both literacy and confidence, equipping them to succeed in any professional environment.

Inspired By Me: Literacy as a Tool for Healing and Empowerment

In Inspired By Me, adult women use writing and journaling as part of self-discovery and emotional wellness. Expressing one’s story not only promotes healing, it strengthens the literacy skills often overlooked in adulthood.

Literacy Is More Than Reading Words — It’s Understanding the World

The 74 Million article reminds us that literacy must be nurtured beyond test scores. At From Me 2 U, Inc., our Signature Six Programs develop academic, emotional, and functional literacy, empowering people to think critically, express themselves, and navigate life with confidence.

When young people learn to read their world, they gain the power to change it.

Reference

Richards, E. (2024, October 3). Many young adults are barely literate yet earned a high school diploma. The 74 Million. Retrieved from https://www.the74million.org/article/many-young-adults-barely-literate-yet-earned-a-high-school-diploma/