Breaking Barriers with Lincoln Literacy

In the heart of Downtown Lincoln, there is a place where refugees and immigrants who are striving for a bright future can learn the English language and participate in many other programs.  

BY MARCUS FERTIG

Lincoln Literacy provides the tools and support for those who need assistance with the literary skills necessary to achieve their aspirations. It is a beacon of hope and opportunity, transforming lives and strengthening the community.  

Lincoln Literacy was founded in 1972 by volunteers aiming to help native-born Americans finish their GEDs.  Since then, they have experienced consistent growth as the need for their services grows.  In 1993, under their first executive director, Lois Poppe, they reached nonprofit status, cementing themselves as a vital resource for the community. 

From 2000 to 2023, they operated at their office on 9th and G street, a stretch where they expanded significantly, including the Woods Charitable Fund Breakthrough grant - the Bridgeway to a Better Life.  In 2023, Lincoln Literacy moved into its current space on the Lincoln Mall (along with over eight other community locations across the city).  With each step forward, they continue to assist in building brighter futures for those they serve.

Executive Director Bryan Seck powerfully explains the organization's mission statement: “To strengthen our community by teaching the English language and a variety of literacy skills to people of all cultures.”  The organization first aims to support those learning English and then to transfer their skills for placement in the local job market. “We want to teach English and literacy skills to everyone,” Seck explains. In this country, English is parallel to freedom.” 

Since taking over in 2023, Bryan Seck has led Lincoln Literacy through substantial growth.  Just 13 days into 2025, Lincoln Literacy has over 100 new applicants.  “We’ve doubled in the last two years,” Seck shares, “In 2022, we served 1,109 students; in 2023, it was 1,663; in 2024, it was over 2,300,”  Seck emphasizes the importance of remaining true to their mission. “We try to be very thoughtful while we grow– we aren’t changing who we are; there's just more of us now.”  

Lincoln Literacy offers a wide array of skill development programs in addition to language classes, including GED prep, Computer Literacy, School Jobs and Paraprep, CNA Prep, and more. Each week, they offer more than 100 English language and literacy classes, catering to all levels of learners and ensuring that each has the necessary tools to succeed.  

One of the standout attractions at Lincoln Literacy is their high-tech driving simulators that have transformed how people learn to drive.  These machines allow drivers to hone in on their skills and work toward earning their driver's license. Seck explains, “As soon as we got the first driving simulator, it was booked months in advance, so we immediately got another one.”

One of the simulators is advanced enough for users to prepare to earn their Commercial Drivers License (CDL).  These simulators have become a significant attraction at Lincoln Literacy and opened doors for people chasing their independence in Lincoln, Nebraska.  Seck explains, “There are two key things vital to achieving freedom in America: English and driving.” 

Another service Lincoln Literacy offers is free van transportation around town.  With six 15-passenger vans operating over 12 hours a day, six days a week, the service ensures that students can access their education wherever they live. “The logistics can be difficult, but it is very pivotal to our operation,” says Seck.  

Another piece of the Lincoln Literacy puzzle is their collaborations within the community.  For example, they partner with Catholic Social Services, Good Neighbor Center, Lincoln High, and churches for classrooms, Bryan Health for work programs, Goodwill for interview clothing, and many others.  “Lincoln Literacy is nothing without our collaborations within the community,” says Seck, “Every day we receive referrals from Lincoln Public Schools and Southeast Community College.” Often a link between organizations, Bryan Seck and Lincoln Literacy do what they can to ensure that resources and opportunities flow smoothly.  

In Lincoln Literacy’s 52-year lifespan, they have continuously resided in Downtown Lincoln.  “We’ve been at the Peanut Butter Factory, we’ve been at 9th and G, and now we’re on the Lincoln Mall, and we own the building.  We will always be downtown.  Seck explains, We are very proud of being a part of the downtown community and would never reside anywhere else in Lincoln.”  

Downtown Lincoln is more than just a location for Lincoln Literacy– it’s the foundation of their work and where most students live. The vibrant community and partnerships make it the perfect place to connect people with the resources they need to build brighter futures.

To enroll, donate, or become a partner, visit www.lincolnliteracy.org 

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