As part of International Literacy Day, the Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, and the Honourable Krista Lynn Howell, Minister of Education, are extending congratulations to ABC Life Literacy Canada as the recipient of the 2023 Council of the Federation Literacy Award for Newfoundland and Labrador.
The Council of the Federation Literacy Award was created in 2004 to celebrate adult learners who undertake literacy training, as well as the valuable contributions made by Canadians in the field of literacy, including family, Indigenous, health, workplace, and community literacy. The award is presented to learners, educators, volunteers, community organizations, and businesses in each province and territory.
ABC Life Literacy Canada is dedicated to advancing literacy by empowering adult learners, increasing awareness, and providing support to the adult learning sector. With staff operating throughout Newfoundland and Labrador, this organization has been the lead on two programs that are focused on supporting and empowering individuals in the province.
The Activate Learning program is designed to foster a culture of lifelong learning and reduce stigma. By offering workshops, learning resources, and custom workbooks, ABC Life Literacy has made significant strides in supporting diverse learner groups, families, and community organizations across the province. The Activate Learning program served 24,216 learners in Newfoundland and Labrador from November 2019 to April 2023 through 680 workshops, home learning activities, and workbook downloads. A newer Learning at the Museum program allows residents to avail of cultural literacy activities specific to our unique history and culture. This includes workshops, cultural guides, and increased accessibility to culturally relevant materials and spaces.
Since 1967, International Literacy Day celebrations have taken place annually around the world to remind the public of the importance of literacy as a matter of dignity and human rights, and to advance the literacy agenda towards a more literate and sustainable society.
To support adult literacy in Newfoundland and Labrador, the Provincial Government implemented the five-year Adult Literacy Action Plan in 2019. The plan places a special emphasis on reaching out to and supporting vulnerable populations, including newcomers, individuals with disabilities, and those facing economic hardships to improve literacy in the province.
Quotes
“On behalf of the people of Newfoundland and Labrador, it is my pleasure to congratulate ABC Life Literacy Canada on receiving the 2023 Council of the Federation Literacy Award. This organization’s commitment to community and promoting lifelong learning through an array of resources is exceptional. I applaud your continued efforts to increase literacy and dedication to reducing stigma in our province.”
Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey
Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador
“Adult literacy is a key component to a person’s well-being, and is foundational to a thriving and prosperous Newfoundland and Labrador. Congratulations to ABC Life Literacy Canada for their outstanding work to provide support and resources to the adult learners and community-based organizations throughout the province. This achievement is a recognition of your dedication to creating a brighter future for the province and country. ”
Honourable Krista Lynn Howell
Minister of Education
“ABC Life Literacy Canada has supported over 200 organizations across the province in reaching their adult and family literacy goals through learning resource distribution and workshop delivery. We are continually inspired by learners’ stories of meeting personal goals through participation in our adult literacy programs in Newfoundland and Labrador. Our programs are based on best practices in adult literacy education and have been shown to increase confidence, reduce stigma, and create a culture of lifelong learning at home, at work, and in the community.”
Alison Howard
Executive Director of ABC Life Literacy Canada
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Learn more
The Council of the Federation Literacy Award
Call for Nominations for 2023 Council of the Federation Literacy Award