Since 1995, the On the Road to Literacy Conference has brought together adult learners, volunteer tutors, educators, and program staff for a day of learning, connection, and celebration.

This gathering creates a dedicated space for professional development and community building, offering a robust selection of workshops that cover everything from basic literacy, English language learning, and digital skills, to teaching techniques, family literacy, and workforce readiness. Because adult education is never one-size-fits-all, the conference emphasizes flexible, practical tools that tutors and learners can take back to their tutoring or community programs right away.

A cornerstone of the day is recognizing outstanding volunteers—the tutors whose compassion, persistence, and creativity change lives. Through awards, the conference highlights the power of volunteerism and honors those who help open doors to reading, writing, and new opportunities.

Beyond resources and recognition, the conference is a wellspring. It’s where programs connect, new partnerships form, and ideas spread. It’s a safe place to share challenges, celebrate wins, and commit to the belief that everyone deserves access to literacy.

Whether you are a seasoned tutor, a first-time learner, or a program organizer, the On the Road to Literacy Conference welcomes you.

Join us to learn, connect, and grow.

Testimonials

About the Conference

  • “Well organized, great city officials and community leaders. Wide range of presentations.”

  • “This was a nice day, what a fun little conference. I loved that it was reasonably priced.”

  • “I loved the connection with the State of Illinois!”

About the Workshops

  • “Me encanta mucho! Voy a usar algunos de esos juegos en mi clase.”

  • “I love how this workshop emphasized starting with storytelling before structure.”

  • “Concrete instruction that is easy to teach… Love this way of reinforcing stress rhythm.”

  • “I’ve been thinking about implementing this in the learning space but never knew how to do it. Thank you!”

  • “Our facilitator did the essential work of putting us in the shoes of refugees.”

Getting Here

Malcolm X College Conference Center is located on the Near West Side of Chicago, just west of downtown.

The Conference Center is part of the College campus and it is clearly marked.

Driving & Parking

Get Directions to 1900 W. Jackson Blvd, Chicago, IL 60612.

  • From I-290 Eisenhower Expressway
  • Exit at Ashland Avenue
  • Head north on Ashland Avenue
  • Turn west (left) on Jackson Blvd.
  • Continue west to 1900 W. Jackson Blvd.
  • The College parking garage is accessible​ via Jackson Blvd.​​​

Public Transportation 

Several CTA routes run adjacent to the college:

  • CTA Blue Line – Illinois Medical District
    • When you exit the station, walk east toward Damen Avenue, then walk south to Jackson Boulevard.
  • CTA buses #157, #126, and #50

From Union Station:

  • Walk to the Clinton CTA Blue Line station (3–5 minutes).
  • Take the Blue Line train toward Forest Park.
  • Get off at Illinois Medical District (8–10 minutes).
  • Walk 5 minutes west on Jackson Blvd to Malcolm X College.

From Millennium Station:

  • Walk to the Washington CTA Blue Line Station (5–7 minutes).
  • Take the Blue Line train toward Forest Park.
  • Get off at Illinois Medical District (about 10 minutes).
  • Walk 5 minutes west on Jackson Blvd to Malcolm X College.

Plan your trip: