For Art Rectenwald, supporting Literacy Pittsburgh is both a personal and a professional commitment. As founder and CEO of Rectenwald Brothers Construction—a national leader in commercial construction— Art has built more than just buildings. He’s built a business grounded in hard work, relationships, and opportunity.
With a workforce that includes many immigrant employees, he understands firsthand how literacy skills can open doors. When he connected with Literacy Pittsburgh through CEO Carey Harris, the mission struck a chord. “Supporting literacy means supporting opportunity,” he shared.
That same belief in opportunity inspired Rectenwald Brothers to sponsor the Market and Café at One Big Table. It was a natural fit. Art’s wife, Irina, who was born and raised in Uzbekistan, has a deep passion for food and culture. Their shared appreciation for global flavors and cultures made the event feel personal. By helping small and immigrant-owned businesses shine, their sponsorship was more than support—it was a celebration.
Founded in 1984, Rectenwald Brothers has grown into a trusted construction partner for national brands and Fortune 500 companies. But for Art, giving back locally is just as important. His support of Literacy Pittsburgh reflects a simple but powerful belief: when people have the tools to succeed, the entire community thrives. “It just felt right,” he said. “This work matters.”
Literacy Pittsburgh (formerly Greater Pittsburgh Literacy Council) helps create better lives through learning. Recognized as a national leader in adult and family literacy, Literacy Pittsburgh is the largest provider of adult basic education in Allegheny and Beaver Counties. Last year, Literacy Pittsburgh helped more than 4,000 individuals acquire the skills needed to reach their fullest potential in life and participate productively in their communities. Literacy Pittsburgh provides free, personalized instruction in workforce readiness, high school diploma test preparation, digital literacy, English language learning, math, reading, and family literacy through one-to-one and small class instruction. Founded in 1982, it serves local adults through numerous neighborhood locations and its Downtown Pittsburgh Learning Center.
