Giving the Gift of Reading, the Gift to L ast a L ifetime! A long tradition of providing literacy

Victoria Literacy Connection (VLC), a result of a merger between Victoria READ and Literacy Victoria Societies, continues the long tradition of providing literacy support on the South Island. VLC addresses community and individual needs by providing programs through a learnercentered approach, whether it be reading, writing, math, school support, English and French languages and digital literacy. An example of adapting to community needs, VLC developed an online reading program for children in grades 2-5 in groups of three facilitated by trained volunteers already Easter Monday 2020. Accordingly, VLC adapted its remaining programming to online learning in parallel to in-person learning. With online learning, we soon discovered how beneficial this was for single parent households and individuals with mobility and transportation issues. To balance out the technology, VLC developed an intergenerational pen pal club, where elders and youth exchange letters, which created lovely and sincere connections in our community.

VLC has recently started a Family Literacy program where preschoolers and their newcomer parents and grandparents take part in intergenerational reading support to improve English language skills and to encourage reading in the home. Such a delight to see the little ones! Presently, VLC is developing financial literacy for youth and adults and a youth critical thinking program where youth will learn research skills, understanding about reliable sources and presentation skills.

SOME TESTIMONIALS:

“Highly recommend. No matter what your level of experience is, it has been a great reintroduction to building computer skills.”

“The program delivered by my [adult literacy] tutor was excellent. Thanks.”

“We are so very grateful that this program is available, J. has come so far thanks to this extra help, I would love for you all to know what a godsend this is for kids that are struggling, as we all know, it affects their confidence and how they view themselves …. Thank you!!”

Visit victorialiteracyconnection.ca to learn more or contact our Executive Director, Christine Bossi, by email: ed@ victorialiteracyconnection.ca or phone: 250-385-0014, who will be very happy to discuss your gift giving arrangement to suit your preferences.