Millions unable to read job application

Millions of Americans battle a hidden problem that's becoming increasingly worse.

Imagine not being able to read the newspaper, fill out a job application, or even understand the back of your medicine bottle.

It may seem unreal, but it's a reality for more than 32 million of Americans, because those adults have low-literacy skills.

For the last 49-years, Jack Vester of Terre Haute has struggled to read.

"I couldn't read very much, I had to have help, my wife would have to help me," Vester said.

Vester said he was unable to understand a job application leaving him with little employment options.

It's been an emotional struggle that started after he dropped out of high school in the 11th grade, but it's now ending because his wife pushed him to go back to school

"If it hadn't been for her, I wouldn't have done it," Vester said.

Every week Vester hit the books at adult education classes through Vigo County School Corporation.

"If they come to class regularly almost every single one makes grade level gains," Assistant Coordinator for Adult Education John Newport said. "Like in our case of jack, he's made two grade level gains just in this school year."

This year, Vester is opening a new chapter in his life by proving others and himself it can be done.

Of the 400 adult students Vigo County School Corporation taught, 100 of them started out with 4th grade reading level or lower.

"Abraham lincoln said you're never to old to learn and I believe that," Vester said.

State and federal funding for adult education has lacked for years, even though it's estimated that illiteracy costs businesses over $60 billion each year in lost productivity and health and safety issues.

One county in the Wabash Valley is trying to make up for that funding.

The Greene County Literacy Coalition is hosting a fundraising event Nov. 14 at 1p.m. at the Saron Church in Linton, Ind.

News 10's David Wire, Kevin Orpurt and Jessica Hayes will be in attendance raising money for books and supplies for adult education.