The Learn to Read project was designed to provide a supportive setting in which functionally illiterate adult students from suburban Cook County, Illinois, and surrounding areas could develop reading and writing skills. The target population included English-dominant adults with basic oral competency but no literacy skills, as well as limited-English-proficient adults who had limited experiences in an educational setting, did not use the Roman alphabet in their first language, or lacked adequate comprehension skills and strategies. The project strategy focused on immediate application of students' needs, with an interactive approach using professional instructors, community volunteers, and peer involvement. More than 50 students were recruited and attended the multi-level classes; at least 66 percent attended 2 or more cycles. Short-term results include the following: two students received previously unattainable driver's licenses; several students enrolled in adult and continuing education or Oakton Community College courses following or concurrent with the reading classes; several students who had been unemployed got jobs; and several students decided to meet in a self-help group during the summer months to continue to improve their skills. Appended are the recruitment brochure and flyer, a suggested materials list; exercises in reading the newspaper, advertisements, discount coupons, and food labels; and a step by step approach used by a volunteer tutor for teaching a student how to read stories specifically written for the student. (Adjunct ERIC Clearinghouse on Literacy Education) (LB)