Today we’d like to introduce you to Susan Hasley.
Hi Susan , please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
In 2019, as my years of homeschooling were coming to an end, I saw a news report about a woman who had done something horrific to her autistic child. I had worked with children for many years, but in that moment, I realized I had never extended the same level of compassion to adults facing unimaginable pressure. I found myself wondering, “Did anyone come alongside her to help her navigate such a difficult situation?”
I knew I was not equipped to intervene in crises like hers, but as I prayed, I realized there was something I could do: I could help adults learn to read. I initially intended to volunteer at our local literacy council, only to discover that there were no services for low-level adult readers. Workforce Essentials offered free high-school equivalency classes, but there was nothing available for adults who needed the most basic reading instruction.
Working closely with Workforce Essentials and with the support of Dickson County resident Charlie Isaacs, we formed a board and launched READ. In January 2021, Charlie began working with our first student, a 75-year-old man. Two months later, in March, we received our 501(c)(3) designation. Our newly formed board provided both inspiration and a strong foundation, playing a crucial role in getting the organization off the ground.
Our first year centered on supporting adults who wanted to strengthen their literacy skills. By our third year, we had expanded to serve English Language Learners, and this past year, we added financial literacy and career-preparedness programs. What began as a simple desire to fill an overlooked need has grown into a comprehensive support system for adult learners throughout our community. We not only tutor individuals in our local community but also serve students in the county jail and recovery houses.
Our logo tells the story of what we believe. It depicts two people walking arm in arm, which reflects our approach to learning: we partner with our students. We walk alongside them, as equals, and depending on the moment, any one of us may be the teacher or the learner. In 2024, we expanded the logo to include a bumblebee. Aerodynamically, the bumblebee is not supposed to fly—yet it does, simply because no one tells it otherwise. Many of our students have internalized the belief that they cannot “fly,” that their goals are out of reach. Our purpose is to come alongside them, help them challenge those beliefs, and show them that they can fly.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It has not always been a smooth road, but we have been consistently overwhelmed by the support of our community—both the nonprofit and private sectors. At every turn, we have been met with encouragement, partnership, and a willingness to help.
Our greatest challenge has been building awareness within our own community. Many residents still do not know that READ exists or that low-level adult literacy support is available to them at no cost. We want learners to feel comfortable reaching out for help, and we rely on a steady pipeline of volunteer tutors to meet growing demand. Increasing visibility—both for services and volunteer opportunities—remains our most persistent hurdle.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am the Executive Director and Founder of READ, and in that role, I wear many hats. My professional background in office management has been invaluable in running the organization’s operations. However, the part of my work that I love most is teaching.
I homeschooled my children for 17 years and taught a variety of classes in our local co-op. During that time, I became certified in a dyslexia program, which gave me the tools to support children who struggled with reading. That training has proven essential in my work with adults, as the majority of our learners face some form of learning difficulty. Understanding their challenges and guiding them through an evidence-based approach are among the most meaningful parts of my work.
What sets READ apart is our commitment to meeting adults exactly where they are—often at literacy levels that many programs are not equipped to serve. We specialize in foundational reading instruction, one-on-one tutoring, and individualized learning plans. Over time, we have expanded to include English-language learning, financial literacy, and career readiness classes. Still, our core focus remains on removing the barriers that prevent adults from gaining essential skills.
I am most proud of our learners’ courage and determination. Watching adults reclaim confidence, independence, and opportunity through literacy is the reason READ exists—and the reason I’m passionate about the work we do every day.
Is there any advice you’d like to share with our readers who might just be starting out?
For anyone just starting—especially in the nonprofit space—my biggest advice is to stay focused on the mission and take things one step at a time. It can be easy to get overwhelmed by administrative requirements, fundraising needs, and unexpected challenges. But if you stay anchored to the reason you started, it becomes much easier to navigate the rest.
I also encourage new founders to ask for help early and often. You do not have to be an expert in everything. Surround yourself with people who have strengths you lack, and do not hesitate to seek guidance from organizations or individuals who have already walked this road. Collaboration has been one of the greatest gifts in our journey.
Looking back, I wish I had known how long it takes for awareness to build. Even when you are offering something your community desperately needs, it still takes time for people to know you exist and trust you enough to reach out. Patience is essential.
Finally, celebrate small wins. In literacy work, progress sometimes comes in inches, not miles. But every inch matters, and each one is worth acknowledging.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.dicksonreads.org
- Instagram: @dicksonreads
- Facebook: DicksonReads
