Imagine going through your whole adult life unable to read a job application, a prescription label, or even a bedtime story to your child. For thousands of adults in Dallas County, this is their reality. Right now, about 21% of people here have little or no reading and literacy skills. That’s one in five. This isn’t just about education. It’s a community issue that affects jobs, financial independence, and daily family life.

 

So, here's the deal. Adults who cannot read are not necessarily adults who cannot learn. Many have spent years hiding their struggles, finding ways to get through life without revealing that they cannot read. Some have learning differences, while others never received the individualized instruction they needed. The consequences extend well beyond the individual. When adults cannot read, employment opportunities narrow and earning potential suffers. In a county with one of the nation's largest economies, we cannot afford to ignore the adults who are being left behind.

 

At Aspire, our Sequential English Education (SEE) program addresses this issue directly. We work with adults who have little or no reading ability, providing individualized instruction that meets them where they are academically. Our students are not looking for a handout. They want the opportunity to learn something that most people mastered as children. Every word they learn to read represents another step toward independence. I believe we have a responsibility to make sure these adults are not forgotten. Because when we teach an adult to read, we do more than change one person's life. We strengthen the community we all share.

We are deeply saddened to announce that Charles "Chuck" Mueller passed away on October 18, 2026. Chuck was more than a longtime volunteer teacher at Aspire; he was a remarkable individual who valued education and helping others. Following a distinguished career in the U.S. Army, retiring as a Lieutenant Colonel, and a successful tenure at ExxonMobil, Chuck dedicated his retirement to helping adults improve their literacy and English skills. His patience, generosity, and genuine care for his students made him an exceptional teacher and a cherished member of the Aspire community.

 

In 2025, we honored Chuck with the Charles Aberg Legacy of Literacy Award in recognition of his outstanding commitment to our students and mission. This well-deserved award celebrated someone who gave selflessly, never seeking anything in return.

 

Chuck lived a life defined by service, kindness, and an unwavering belief in helping others. Beyond Aspire, he supported paralyzed veterans and individuals working toward recovery from addiction. Whether serving his country, teaching in our classrooms, or simply lending a helping hand, Chuck made the lives of those around him better. His passing is a tremendous loss for Aspire, but his legacy will live on through the students he taught and the many people whose lives he touched. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his wife, Joy, his children, Kendall and Matthew, and all who knew and loved him. We are especially touched that his family has included Aspire among the organizations designated for memorial gifts in his honor. 

 

Chuck gave Aspire something far more valuable than his time. He gave our students his belief in their ability to succeed. For that, and for the privilege of knowing him, we will always be grateful.

 

                                  Full Obituary and Tribute page                                   

Aspire's Mingle & Jingle is set to return on Sunday evening, December 6, at the beautiful Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden!

 

We are bringing back an evening of holiday cheer, community, and celebration in support of adult literacy, and this year, we are adding even more festive fun.

The Dallas Arboretum feels magical during the holidays—the lights, the laughter, and the smell of delicious food in the air. Aspire's Mingle & Jingle brings it all together for a night of celebration and community.

 

Every ticket you buy automatically enters you into our holiday raffle, where you could win a $1,000 shopping spree! Whether you're shopping for gifts or treating yourself, it's a little extra sparkle for your season.

 

Even if you don't win the raffle, you'll still have a night to remember:

Whether you are starting a new holiday tradition or continuing one, Mingle & Jingle is the perfect way to celebrate the season while supporting Aspire's mission of expanding education and opportunity for adults across North Texas.

📍 Event Details: 
Date & Time: Sunday, December 6, 5–8 p.m.
Location: The Dallas Arboretum – Rosine Hall
8525 Garland Rd, Dallas, TX 75218

Are you looking for a new career, a better-paying job, or a more secure future for you and your family? Aspire's Workforce Training Program can help you take that next step! Our program offers hands-on training in the growing logistics and warehousing industry, helping adults build valuable skills and earn industry-recognized certifications employers want. Whether you are unemployed, working multiple jobs to make ends meet, or simply ready for a career change, Aspire offers a practical pathway to new employment opportunities. You don't need years of experience to get started. All you need is the desire to learn and the willingness to invest in your future.

 

Through our partnership with ReadyToWork in South Dallas, participants can complete Powered Industrial Truck (PIT/forklift) and OSHA Workplace Safety certification training in just two days! For those looking to begin or advance their careers, Aspire also offers opportunities to earn Certified Logistics Associate (CLA) and Certified Logistics Technician (CLT) credentials. Our program includes workplace readiness and financial literacy education to help students prepare for long-term success. We offer training sessions twice a month, so students can start anytime throughout the year. These are real opportunities that can make a meaningful difference in someone's life.

 

Now we need your help spreading the word! If you or someone you know could benefit from workforce training, please get in touch with Aspire today. Think of a friend struggling to find steady employment, a family member looking for a better-paying job, or someone who simply needs an opportunity to get ahead. Share this information with them! A conversation today could lead to a new career tomorrow. To learn more about upcoming training sessions, eligibility, and enrollment, visit  www.aspiretolearn.org/interest. Our team is ready to help you take the first step toward a brighter future.

 

Formerly known as LIFT and Aberg Center for Literacy

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