“A drop of ink makes thousands think. If you’ve learned to read, you can learn to succeed.” – Unknown
While it is Campbell River Literacy Association’s mission to raise awareness of literacy issues in the community, who knew that more than one in four adults struggle with reading and writing?
Campbell River Literacy Association has seven programs which contribute to learning, these are: Community Adult Literacy Program (CALP), the English as a Second Language (ESL) Settlement Assistance Program, English Practice Group, Youth ESL Program, Aboriginal Family Literacy, Family Literacy and the Computer Literacy Program. In the last school year, the association aided 198 learners with the assistance of 106 volunteer tutors. They rely on volunteers to assist learners in meeting their literacy goals.
“We want to make the learning environment a fun and relaxed place to come. If you like meeting with your tutor for help, you are likely to continue. That is why we do lots of fun activities, games and field trips,” said Julina Spetch, ESL Program coordinator.
Most of their programs are learner-centered and based on a one-on-one tutoring model, which means they tailor their programs to fit the literacy needs of each individual. Learners are paired with their own volunteer tutor who works one-on-one with them. There is no cost for any of the programs. Enrolment for our programs is year round. If you are interested in improving your reading, writing, basic math or pronunciation, contact us for more information. Programs run during the day and in the evening to meet each person’s individual needs.
“It is important to recognize that knowing how to read and write impacts our everyday life. Nearly half of all Canadians struggle with some part of Literacy. When some of our learners come to us, they are not able to read such things as bus schedules, street signs or many other things that we take for granted,” said Sherry Bujold, Adult Literacy Program Coordinator. Campbell River Literacy is always looking for more students and more volunteer tutors.
They have an upcoming tutor training session that will begin early November. If you are interested in helping someone improve their quality of life through literacy, contact Campbell River Literacy for more information. Many people do not want help with literacy issues because they are ashamed, this is more normal then you expect.
“The issue of Literacy is a very embarrassing topic for some people,” said Kat Eddy, Outreach Literacy Coordinator.
So if you or someone you know needs help or if you are interested in volunteering drop by the office Monday - Thursday 8:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. at A121A – 740 Robron Road, Campbell River or call 250 923 1275 or e-mail info@literacyforall.ca
“After being a tutor for only a few months, I thoroughly look forward to each tutoring session and enjoy them immensely! They are very rewarding personally and give me a great sense of accomplishment through paying it forward and contributing to, what I consider, is a great need in our community,” said Lynette Duncan, Volunteer Tutor