Dollar General’s literacy foundation continues to improve education

June 13, 2026 - 06:24

The literacy foundation tied to Dollar General is pressing forward with its efforts to improve education, building on a mission that goes back to the company's earliest days. The foundation's work is rooted in the personal story of co-founder J.L. Turner, who grew up as the son of a Tennessee farmer. Turner only received a third-grade education, an experience that shaped his understanding of the barriers many people face in gaining basic reading skills.

That personal history continues to drive the foundation's programs today. Rather than simply writing checks, the organization focuses on practical support for schools and community groups. This includes grants for books, reading materials, and teacher training. The goal is to help students build a strong foundation in literacy, which the foundation sees as essential for long-term success in school and later in life.

The foundation also partners with local libraries and after-school programs to reach children outside of the classroom. By targeting communities where access to books is limited, the program aims to close the gap for families who might otherwise struggle to find reading resources. Organizers say the work is not just about teaching kids to read, but about giving them the confidence to keep learning. For a company built by a man who left school early, the push for literacy remains a personal and lasting priority.