Mission & History
Mission Statement
How Beyond Basics Became a Literacy Nonprofit
1999
2001
2002
Incorporates as a nonprofit, formalizes its early programs and establishes first in-school publishing center.
Begins full time in Detroit’s Jamieson Elementary School thanks to the Farbman family’s generosity. The Webber Foundation becomes a major supporter.
2009
Mercedes Benz Financial Services provides funding for reading and writing in Thirkell Elementary School, Detroit.
2011
Gordon Follmer brings Beyond Basics to Detroit’s Finney High School and duplicates results among older students.
Family Literacy pilot offers adult GED services and reading tutoring; expands literacy tutoring to students in grades three through 12.
2014
2015
2016
Brings its programs to Myers Elementary School, Taylor.
2017
2018
2019
2020
GM donates $1 million to Be the Solution.
Begins serving students virtually; duplicates in-person results.
2021
2022
2023
Beyond Basics announced the findings of a Longitudinal Study, which unequivocally demonstrates the potential of children. In this comprehensive study conducted by Dietz Consulting, involving 3,553 students. High school students, on average, showed remarkable improvement by advancing two grade levels.
Beyond Basics is recognized by the Detroit Sports Commission as a living legacy awardee for promoting education.
Beyond Basics champions the introduction of the Sense of Congress Bill – HR Res 738, fostering educational excellence nationally.