The dawn of the 21st century found levels of educational attainment in Noble County falling behind that of other Indiana counties.  In 1990, Noble County ranked 66th out of 92, and by 2000 stood 76th out of 92 counties in the number of adults 25 and older with a high school diploma.  In other words, about 80% of counties in Indiana have a higher percentage of adults with a high school diploma or GED than does Noble County.


During that same period, 1990-2000, the Hispanic population in Noble County grew 428%.  A frightening 24.6% of Hispanic families in Noble County live at or below the poverty level, making them victims of extreme economic deprivation.  This condition fosters further problems within the family such as alcohol and drug abuse, low levels of monitoring and supervision for children, and sometimes, physical and emotional abuse.


In 2000, the Dekko Foundation acted upon the needs so clearly evident in Noble County when it created LEAP of Noble County, Inc.  Today, LEAP is leading the cause for empowerment through literacy in Noble County.  Through programs county-wide, LEAP is building a stronger, more literate Noble County.


Throughout the county, LEAP programs offer access to needed resources and provide educational opportunities for Noble County families.  LEAP offers GED classes, ENL (English as a New Language) classes, a before and afterschool program called New DAWN (New Dimensions at West Noble), and tutoring county-wide.  LEAP's programs serve hundreds of students each week.


As its vision clearly states, "LEAP of Noble County, Inc. ignites a learning revolution that results in a community that values family literacy and education, pursues life long learning, and empowers its individuals and families with the knowledge to follow and achieve their dreams."