South Baldwin Literacy Council and The Gateway Workforce Initiative Announce Transformative Partnership to Strengthen Career Advancement Program

Foley, AL – May 28, 2025 – The South Baldwin Literacy Council (SBLC) and The Gateway Workforce Initiative are proud to announce a transformative partnership that will significantly enhance SBLC’s Career Advancement Program (CAP). This collaboration marks a major step in empowering adult learners by seamlessly transitioning SBLC students from foundational education to meaningful employment or further career development opportunities.

Originally launched by SBLC to help adult learners move from foundational education into the workforce, CAP is a structured, multi-phase program that equips students with the skills, confidence, and resources needed to pursue meaningful employment or further career development. The new partnership with The Gateway Workforce Initiative, a local leader in workforce development, will deepen the program’s impact by providing direct pathways to local employers, job training opportunities, and advanced educational options.

“We are incredibly excited to partner with The Gateway Initiative to expand the reach and effectiveness of the Career Advancement Program,” said Taylor Johns, Executive Director of the South Baldwin Literacy Council. “This collaboration is a natural extension of our mission to empower individuals through education. CAP is already changing lives, and with this partnership, we can take it further. We’re not just helping students find jobs; we’re helping them build sustainable, long-term careers.”

The Gateway Initiative expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, "Our collaboration with the South Baldwin Literacy Council through the Career Advancement Program perfectly aligns with our commitment to fostering a skilled and thriving workforce in Baldwin County. By working hand-in-hand, we can ensure that SBLC students have a clear and supported path to employment and long-term career success, ultimately contributing to the economic vitality of our community."

This strategic partnership between the South Baldwin Literacy Council and The Gateway Workforce Initiative represents a significant investment in advancing workforce readiness across Baldwin County. By strengthening the Career Advancement Program, SBLC and the Gateway Workforce Initiative will not only equip SBLC students with an educational foundation but also with the confidence, resources, and network necessary to achieve their full potential and make meaningful contributions to the community. Together, they are opening doors to opportunity, self-sufficiency, and lasting change.

About South Baldwin Literacy Council:

The South Baldwin Literacy Council is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to providing literacy instruction to help people in our community make a better life for themselves and their families. SBLC offers a variety of free educational programs to learners of all ages, including reading tutoring, math tutoring, GED tutoring, English Classes, workforce training, and more. 

About The Gateway Workforce Initiative:

The Gateway Workforce Initiative is a leading organization focused on workforce development, connecting individuals with training, resources, and opportunities to build successful careers and meet the needs of local employers.