1968: Founded as a non-profit adult literacy agency.
1971: PLC becomes a member of United Way.
1973: Began training tutors to work as Volunteers in Public School using materials developed by the volunteer arm of the National Right to Read program.
1981: Received grant to develop workshop coordinating materials from both Laubach Literacy Action and Literacy Volunteers of America, the two largest volunteer literacy organizations in the United States.
1983: PLC received VAC award as Volunteer Agency of the Year in the education category.
1985: First Literacy Congress held. This brings together business people, educators, politicians, and the public to explore the issue of literacy today.
1986: Skills Enhancement Programs begin in Hampton and Newport News for city employees. The Newport News program was funded through a grant from the NN Public Library and the VA State Library. The Hampton city employees were given work release time to participate in the program.
1989: Virginia Literacy Foundation for “Best Literacy Program” in existence more than 5 years.
1991: “Best Literacy Program” in Virginia-Virginia Literacy Foundation award.
1991: Virginia Natural Gas award for Community Service.
1994: York County Volunteer, Linda Hicks, recognized by GAVE Aware (Governor’s Award for Volunteering Excellence).
1995: Relocated to new facility in Hampton; changed name to Peninsula READS.
1999: Peninsula READS’ student, Eves Plaisimond, was a recipient of the “Outstanding Adult Learner”, Jeanne P. Baliles Award in Literacy, Virginia Literacy Foundation.
1998-2000: Partnered with Barnes & Noble Booksellers to publish a collection of student writings as a regional project of adult literacy and adult education programs.
2000: Computer Learning Lab at Peninsula READS is upgraded with new equipment and software.
2001: Peninsula READS becomes actively involved in family literacy programs.
2002: Created and introduced the Peninsula READS website.
2003: Peninsula READS celebrates its 35th anniversary.
2003: Annual Unity Award, Hampton Citizens’ Unity Commission
2004: Peninsula READS moves from Cunningham to the Hampton Library and Denbigh.
2008: Peninsula READS celebrates its 35th anniversary.
2009: Peninsula Reads main office moved to new Fishing Point office in Newport News.
