Esteemed Economist Craig Alexander to Speak at Literacy Nova Scotia's Spring Gala Dinner and Auction
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: April 20, 2023
TRURO, NS — Literacy Nova Scotia is thrilled to announce that esteemed economist and literacy advocate, Craig Alexander, will be the guest speaker at the upcoming Spring Gala Dinner and Auction for Literacy on Tuesday, May 9, 2023, at Casino Nova Scotia. The event promises to be a night of fun, entertainment, and generosity, with proceeds going toward supporting adult education and services to improve literacy rates across the province.
As the former Chief Economist for Deloitte Canada and the TD Bank Group, Alexander brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the issue of literacy. According to Jayne Hunter, Executive Director of Literacy Nova Scotia, "We are delighted to have Craig Alexander as our keynote speaker. His insights into the economic impact of literacy are invaluable, and his advocacy for improved literacy education is an inspiration to us all."
Celebrated meteorologist, Cindy Day, will serve as the emcee for the event. In addition, Mayor Mike Savage and Minister Brian Wong, from the Department of Advanced Education, will be special guests in attendance.
The Spring Gala Dinner and Auction will feature a delicious meal prepared by the chefs at Casino Nova Scotia, a silent auction, and an inspiring speech delivered by an adult learner. Attendees can bid on a range of items, including artwork, travel vouchers, kitchen appliances, wine, and beautiful giftware. The event is open to the public, and tickets can be purchased on Literacy Nova Scotia website or by calling 1-800-255-5203.
"The Spring Gala Dinner and Auction is our biggest fundraising event of the year," said Hunter. "We are grateful to everyone who supports our work and helps us make a difference in the lives of Nova Scotians."
Literacy Nova Scotia is a non-profit organization dedicated to improving literacy rates across the province through advocacy. The organization provides resources and training to educators and raises awareness about the importance of literacy in daily life.
For more information about Literacy Nova Scotia and the Spring Gala Dinner and Auction, please visit www.literacyns.ca.
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About Literacy Nova Scotia
Literacy Nova Scotia is a non-profit organization that promotes and supports adult learning across the province. We believe that everyone should have the opportunity to learn and grow, regardless of their age, background, or circumstances. Through our services and advocacy, we work to make this vision a reality for all Nova Scotians.
Contact:
Ethan de Winter, LNS Communications Coordinator, 1-800-255-5203, ethan.dewinter@literacyns.ca
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Transforming Lives Through Literacy: Adult Learners' Week in Nova Scotia is April 2 - 8, 2023
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: March 15, 2023
TRURO, NS — The province of Nova Scotia has declared April 2 - 8, 2023 as Adult Learners’ Week (ALW) and Literacy Nova Scotia is thrilled to announce that a celebration will be held to kickoff the week, which promises to be an empowering and inspiring event.
On March 31st from 2 to 3 pm at the Halifax Central Library, Literacy Nova Scotia will be hosting a gathering of adult learners from across the province who will share their incredible stories of perseverance, courage, and triumph in returning to learning.
Adult Learners' Week is a time to celebrate learners from across the province and highlight the importance of literacy and lifelong learning. During this week, we recognize the hard work and dedication of adult learners who are pushing boundaries and achieving goals they never thought possible.
The ALW celebration is an opportunity to showcase the importance of lifelong learning and how it can transform the lives of adult learners. These learners face unique challenges as they balance work, home-life, and personal commitments with their studies. However, their determination to overcome these obstacles and achieve their goals is nothing short of inspiring.
During the event, you will hear moving and uplifting stories from learners who have overcome adversity to pursue their dreams. You will learn about the challenges they faced and how they overcame them with determination, resilience, and support from their families, friends, and community.
Jayne Hunter, Executive Director of Literacy Nova Scotia, shared her enthusiasm about the event: "ALW is not just a week, it's a movement! It's an incredible opportunity for us to recognize the hard work and dedication of adult learners and their unwavering commitment to their studies, despite facing unique challenges.”
The ALW celebration is a forum for adult learners to share their experiences, encourage each other, and motivate others to persevere in their learning journeys. It's a chance to celebrate the remarkable achievements of adult learners and showcase the importance of lifelong learning.
Jayne Hunter added, "The stories we will hear at the celebration will be nothing short of inspiring. We will hear about learners who have overcome seemingly insurmountable obstacles to achieve their dreams. It's a testament to the resilience and determination of adult learners, and we're excited to celebrate their successes."
As you attend the ALW celebration, you will leave feeling inspired and uplifted, knowing that you have been part of a movement that celebrates the triumph of the human spirit. This celebration is not to be missed! Join us at the Halifax Central Library on March 31st at 2 pm for an unforgettable event.
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About Literacy Nova Scotia
Literacy Nova Scotia is a non-profit organization that promotes and supports adult learning across the province. We believe that everyone should have the opportunity to learn and grow, regardless of their age, background, or circumstances. Through our services and advocacy, we work to make this vision a reality for all Nova Scotians.
Contact:
Ethan de Winter, LNS Communications Coordinator, 1-800-255-5203, ethan.dewinter@literacyns.ca
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The Struggle to Fill Long-Term Care Staffing Shortages Addressed by New Training Program Targeting Underemployed Nova Scotians
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: February 8, 2022
A quick glance at any Canadian news outlet over the last three years paints a bleak picture of our country’s Long-Term Care facilities: closures, staff shortages, and underfunded and under-supported programs.
Care homes were already struggling to meet the needs of residents even before the Covid-19 pandemic, and the worker shortage hasn’t improved in the years since. While providing excellent care to residents is of the utmost importance to care teams across Nova Scotia (including doctors, nurses, administrators, and continuing care assistants), staff are simply stretched too thin to meet the increased demands placed upon them in an environment that’s been fundamentally transformed by the Coronavirus.
In 2019, the Department of Health and Wellness introduced a new role to help address staffing shortages: the Long-Term Care Assistant (LTCA). These non-care staff are intended to support other employees at residences and reduce the pressure felt by a system already straining to meet resident needs. By focusing on basic care, LTCAs provide meaningful engagement with residents, serve as another set of eyes to monitor patient well-being, and subsequently give other members of the care team the time and opportunity to perform specialist care.
Although LTCA positions have the tremendous potential to reduce institutional pressures and to offer gainful employment to underemployed and undereducated Nova Scotians, attracting and training potential employees for the Health Care Sector can be a challenge, especially when current staff do not have the time to provide instruction on top of their existing duties. Literacy Nova Scotia’s Empowerment for Employment - Health Care program was created to address exactly this issue by offering free training to Nova Scotians interested in pursuing a job in Health Care.
The program was generously funded by the Department of Labour, Skills, and Immigration, with the joint goal of relieving pressure from current Long-Term Care employees while providing career opportunities for Nova Scotians who are underemployed or unemployed, or who may not have completed a high school or university degree.
The first of these training programs begins in Spring 2022, with three separate courses being taught out of Dartmouth, Bridgewater, and Bridgetown, and spots are fast filling up. As part of the program, participants will receive free Chromebooks to create opportunities for digital learning and will be partnered with Long-Term Care homes that have signed on to provide paid work placement and future employment at those facilities.
But the training provided by Empowerment for Employment – Health Care goes beyond the benefits of its work placement component. While participants will receive free instruction in job-specific skills such as dementia care and receive certificates such as First-Aid, they will also be trained in transferable skills that increase employability across all sectors. The goal of the course is to tailor instruction to individual student needs by addressing specific deficits in the areas of communication skills, digital literacy, reading and writing, numeracy, conflict resolution, and public speaking. The course will also feature an extensive diversity training component and makes boosting student confidence one of its primary goals.
The program is currently seeking compassionate applicants from across Nova Scotia who are interested in working in the Health Care Sector. Adult learners of all skill and education levels are encouraged to apply.
The training program will run from early March until the end of May 2022.
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Literacy Nova Scotia is a not-for-profit charitable umbrella organization that works to ensure that all Nova Scotians have equal access to quality literacy, essential skills, and lifelong learning opportunities. We have been supporting the literacy community since 1992.
Contact:
Kate Cober, Project Coordinator, Empowerment for Employment LTC Project, 506-227-8590, katecober@gmail.com
2021 NSPGI for Literacy
November 3rd, 2021 at 7:00pm via Zoom: Get a free ticket.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: October 29, 2021
TRURO, NS — Jordan Ogden likes to think that his story isn’t anything special. “I’m just a father who made the bad decision to drop out of high school. It got to the point where I no longer had the motivation to bother with school. I had a newborn child to take care of, and school was the sacrifice I was willing to make to do it.”
After ten years of working in fast food, Jordan felt like he was missing something. He took a medical leave from work because he became ill but had no job to return to when he recovered. Jordan then made the decision to go back to school for the education he needed to find meaningful work. “My goal was simple,” says Jordan. “I had to obtain my grade 12 education, which allows me to find greater opportunities to advance myself even further.”
Jordan is Literacy Nova Scotia’s 2021 Nova Learning Achievement Award Recipient. Jordan’s instructor at NSCC Burridge calls him a true adult learner who sought ways to improve his essay writing, who worked at a fast pace, and submitted quality work assignments.
You will hear Jordan tell his own inspiring story at The NSPGI 2021 for Literacy on November 3rd, 2021 at 7:00pm via Zoom. Get a free ticket.
You will also hear about Christina DiVittorio, LNS’ 2021 Air Canada Learner Achievement Award Recipient. She is back to in-class courses in the Adult Learning Program at NSCC Marconi Campus, where she is completing her requirements for a high school diploma. “It will be my first time back in an actual classroom for quite some time.” Remote learning has provided an opening for Christina to have a comfort zone at school and to find a way to overcome her learning problems like PTSD.
Christina’s instructor at NSCC Marconi is impressed by how Chrissy was able to overcome barriers which enabled her to return to school. “My learning goals include figuring out how I learn, so I can learn in ways suitable for me,” says Christina. “I would not have made it where I am today without ALP. I wouldn’t be motivated or determined. I would feel hopeless. I really appreciate the setting of NSCC and I look forward to continuing my education to get my grade 12.”
The NSPGI for Literacy is LNS’s major fundraiser. Supporting NSPGI makes a difference to adult learners in the community by providing them with access to technology, placing valuable resources in their classrooms, and creating scholarships and bursaries to help further their education. We value your contribution to improve literacy in our province.
We’re thrilled to have Rick Mercer as our MC and Mayor Mike Savage as our host. Author and artist Jenni Blackmore has been selected as Poet Laureate, and special appearances will be made by Twin Flames, Louise Penny, Ashley MacIsaac, and Stephen Fearing.
Although this year’s 1 hour event will be free of charge, donations or sponsorships would be greatly appreciated. As an added bonus, for anyone making a donation, their name will be entered into a draw for an LNS gift bag. For those who donate $100 or more, their name will be entered into a draw to win a 9" hand-turned wooden platter donated by Calum Ewing, valued at $175. Please help spread the word and pass this along to others who would be interested in attending this free event.
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Contact:
Jayne Hunter, LNS Executive Director, 902-324-1898 jayne.hunter@literacyns.ca
Adult Learners’ Week in Nova Scotia is April 5 – 9, 2021: A Time to Celebrate the Value of Literacy and the Joy of Learning
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: April 6, 2021
TRURO, NS — The Province of Nova Scotia has proclaimed April 5 – 9, 2021 as International Adult Learners’ Week, “a time for all Nova Scotians to celebrate the value of literacy and the role it plays in our individual and collective wellbeing.”
Adult Learners’ Week is the highlight of our year at Literacy Nova Scotia (LNS). Adults who return to learning to upgrade their education and skills change their lives and the lives of those around them. LNS works to ensure that quality literacy, essential skills, and lifelong learning opportunities are available for adult learners. Again this year, due to concern around COVID-19, our Adult Learners’ Week (#ALW2021) celebration of learning and activities are all online.
LNS held an iPad Mini Draw and invited adults in learning programs across Nova Scotia to share their stories in essays. What better way for adult learners to celebrate their successes than by putting their stories into words. Izee C. Haught, a learner at the Digby Area Learning Association submitted the winning entry ‘Better Your Future With Literacy’, and will receive an iPad Mini. All contest entries are included in the Adult Learners’ Week 2021 ebooklet.
We were excited to offer a new online Adult Learners’ Week Writing Workshop with Author Jenni Blackmore on the LNS Znanja elearning platform. Over 20 adult learners participated in this workshop which was offered from March 22 to April 5, 2021 and included writing activities, videos and Zoom discussions.
Our #ALW2021 social media celebration of the joy of learning throughout life is happening on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and Instagram throughout Adult Learners’ Week. Please share your adult learning success stories in photos, graphics, videos and stories on social media. Tell us how adult learning changed your life. Sharing your learning success will inspire others. Download the Adult Learners’ Week social media guide.
“Adult learning opportunities have become even more accessible for some during the pandemic,” says LNS Executive Director Jayne Hunter. “Those who previously had travel or time constraints are now finding that they can upgrade online. We commend all those who continue to learn and improve their skills.”
LNS is a provincial non-profit organization that has been supporting the literacy community since 1992. Our vision is for all Nova Scotians to achieve their learning goals and fulfill their potential.
All Adult Learners’ Week activities are funded by the Government of Nova Scotia’s Department of Labour and Advanced Education to support NSSAL learners.
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Contact:
Jayne Hunter, LNS Executive Director, 902-324-1898 jayne.hunter@literacyns.ca
Celebrating Adult Learners’ Week Event Cancelled, But We Celebrate the Joy of Learning Online
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: March 17, 2020
TRURO, NS — The Celebrating Adult Learners’ Week event, scheduled to be held on Friday, April 3, 2020 at Halifax Central Library, 5440 Spring Garden Road in Halifax, Nova Scotia has been cancelled because of public health concerns around COVID 19. The Adult Learners’ Week Celebration is the highlight of our year at Literacy Nova Scotia (LNS). It is a huge disappointment to have to cancel it, but a necessary precaution.
We still have Adult Learners’ Week (March 31 – April 4, 2020) to look forward to! Our social media celebration of the joy of learning throughout life will happen on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, You Tube and Instagram throughout the week. Please share your adult learning success stories in photos, graphics, videos, stories, and poems on social media. Tell us how adult learning changed your life. Sharing your learning success will inspire others. An Adult Learners’ Week social media guide is available.
LNS is a provincial non-profit organization that has been supporting the literacy community since 1992. LNS provides leadership to advance literacy by ensuring that all Nova Scotians have equal access to quality literacy, essential skills, and lifelong learning opportunities. https://literacyns.ca
Literacy Nova Scotia’s Celebrating Adult Learners’ Week event is funded by the Government of Nova Scotia’s Department of Labour and Advanced Education and in partnership with Halifax Public Libraries.
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Contact:
Jayne Hunter, LNS Executive Director, 902-324-1898 jayne.hunter@literacyns.ca
NSPGI Dinner and Auction for Literacy Cancelled
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: March 16, 2020
TRURO, NS — The NSPGI Dinner and Auction for Literacy, scheduled to be held on Tuesday, March 31, 2020 at the Halifax Marriott Harbourfront in Halifax, Nova Scotia has been cancelled due to public concern around Covid-19. New public health measures were announced on the morning of March 13, 2020.
Because our event had ticket sales of over 200, the NSPGI Committee made the responsible decision to protect vulnerable Nova Scotians by cancelling our event for this year.
The NSPGI for Literacy event is LNS’s primary fundraiser. We gratefully acknowledge the generous support of the 2020 NSPGI sponsors and those who purchased tickets. We appreciate your continued commitment to helping all Nova Scotians achieve their learning goals and fulfill their potential.
LNS is a provincial non-profit organization that has been supporting the literacy community since 1992. LNS provides leadership to advance literacy by ensuring that all Nova Scotians have equal access to quality literacy, essential skills, and lifelong learning opportunities.
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Contact:
Jayne Hunter, LNS Executive Director, 902-324-1898 jayne.hunter@literacyns.ca
Summer Reading Book Giveaway
TRURO, NS — Literacy Nova Scotia is giving away new books to kick off the summer holidays. On Thursday, June 27th, they will be at the kick-off party for the Colchester East Hants Public Library's summer reading program from 10:00am – noon in Truro. On Friday June 28th, they will be joining Colchester County Big Bros Big Sisters at the grand opening of Fundy Scoops in North River from 11:00am – 2:00pm. On Canada Day, Monday July 1st, they will have a book giveaway during celebrations at the Grace Jollymore Joyce Arts Centre in Tatamagouche from 11:00am – 1:00pm. There are lots of new books to give away thanks to the donations of 100 Women Who Care and John Kennedy with Adopt-a-Library.
WHAT: Literacy Nova Scotia will be giving away new books to those between the ages of 0 – 18 to promote summer reading and inspire a love of literacy!
WHEN & WHERE:
Thursday, June 27th, 2019
Colchester East Hants Public Library, 754 Prince Street, Truro NS
10:00am – 12noon
Friday, June 28th, 2019
Fundy Scoops, North River NS
11:00am – 2:00pm
Monday, July 1st, 2019 (Canada Day)
Grace Jollymore Joyce Arts Centre, 31 Creamery Rd, Tatamagouche NS
11:00am – 1:00pm
WHY: Summer reading helps children and youth (and people of all ages) retain their literacy skills. Literacy Nova Scotia (LNS) is a provincial non-profit organization that has been supporting the literacy community since 1992. LNS works to ensure that all Nova Scotians have equal access to quality literacy, essential skills, and lifelong learning opportunities.
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Contact:
Jayne Hunter, LNS Executive Director, 902.897.2444 or 1.800.255.5203 jayne.hunter@nscc.ca
Essential Skills for Atlantic Fisheries Project:
Barrington Municipality Celebration
Barrington NS - Media is encouraged to attend the Barrington Municipality Celebration on April 15, 2019.
WHAT: Seven residents of Shelburne County have moved from being unemployed to gaining full time employment as a result of the Essential Skills for Atlantic Fisheries project. Literacy Nova Scotia has been working with Acadian Seaplants and Seastar Seafoods to offer mentor training for supervisors as well as training for participants referred by Department of Community Services and Employment Nova Scotia to fill job vacancies. We will be celebrating the successful completion of this first cohort. Participants will be receiving certificates.
WHEN: Monday April 15, 2019 at 4:00pm
WHERE: Barrington Visitor Information Centre, Hwy 3, Barrington NS
WHO: Speaker: Aubrey Hillyard, Manager of Processing and Maintenance, Acadian Seaplants
WHY: The overall goal of the Essential Skills for Atlantic Fisheries (ESAF) project is to increase literacy and essential skills for participants and address labour market and workforce challenges in Atlantic Canada’s fisheries sector.
Literacy Nova Scotia (LNS) is a provincial non-profit organization that has been supporting the literacy community since 1992. LNS works to ensure that all Nova Scotians have equal access to quality literacy, essential skills, and lifelong learning opportunities. https://www.literacyns.ca/esaf.htm
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Contact:
Colin Bawn ESAF Project Coordinator colinbawn@gmail.com
Jayne Hunter, LNS Executive Director, 902.897.2444 or 1.800.255.5203 jayne.hunter@nscc.ca
Adult Learners’ Week 2019 Celebration
Four adults who returned to learning inspired an audience of teachers, politicians, adult learners and their families at the Adult Learners’ Week Celebration at Halifax Central Library on Monday, April 1.
The province has declared April 1 – 6, 2019 as Adult Learners’ Week in Nova Scotia, a time to celebrate adult learners across the province and the importance of literacy and learning throughout life.
Krystal Jackson, Paul Whynacht, Shahani Hashim and Malone Sinclaire spoke about overcoming challenges and improving their education, skills and self-confidence. Literacy Nova Scotia board member Darren Googoo was the MC at the celebration. Other speakers at the event were Danny Cavanagh, LNS Board Chair; Heather MacKenzie, Manager of Diversity Services, Halifax Public Libraries; and Ray Fernandes, Halifax Community Learning Network (HCLN) Board Chair.
Krystal Jackson attended classes at Halifax Community Learning Network (HCLN) and Eastern College. Krystal’s education was interrupted by addictions in her family and when she became a single parent. She returned to learning, earned her GED, and is a strong role model for her family. “Adult learning has given me a life I can be proud of. I am incredibly thankful to be an educated adult.”
Paul Whynacht has attended tutoring with HCLN since 2016. He completed grade 8 in the public-school system but never learned how to read or write well. “When you can't read or write, it makes every day a challenge.” Paul has improved his skills with tutoring.
Shahani Hashim is in Level 4 of the Adult Learning Program at NSCC Institute of Technology. She will graduate in June, having completed the two-year program in one year. Shahani was the 2018 Donald R. Sobey Bursary Award recipient, and is also an active community volunteer and tutor. “No matter how hard life may get, never give up on education. Education is a blessing and a necessity.”
Malone Sinclaire attended classes at HCLN. Even though Malone experienced a difficult childhood, she loved school and wanted to excel. Malone returned to learning as an adult and has improved her skills. “My education is now a life-long learning process.”
The Honourable Rafah DiCostanzo, MLA for Clayton Park West brought greetings from the province and congratulated the learners. “Learning is the foundation for growth in all aspects of our lives. Through literacy, we all have the chance to create our own opportunities, pursue meaningful careers and contribute to our communities.”
"Adults who return to learning can improve their lives and change the lives of the people around them,” said LNS Executive Director Jayne Hunter. "The Adult Learners’ Week Celebration is the highlight of our year at Literacy Nova Scotia. Krystal, Paul, Shahani and Malone are inspirations for us and for the work we do.
Literacy Nova Scotia is a non-profit organization that provides leadership to advance literacy by ensuring that all Nova Scotians have equal access to quality literacy, essential skills, and lifelong learning opportunities.
Would you like to help LNS support adult learners in your community? Get your tickets for the NSPGI for Literacy Gala Dinner and Auction on April 30th, 2019, 5:30pm to 9:00pm at the Halifax Marriott Harbourfront. Join us for an evening of fun and help change lives with literacy! Tickets are available at https://www.literacyns.ca/pgi.htm
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Contact:
Danny Cavanagh, LNS Board Chair, 902.957.0822 dannycavanagh@tru.eastlink.ca
Jayne Hunter, LNS Executive Director, 902.897.2444 or 1.800.255.5203 jayne.hunter@nscc.ca
The 20th Anniversary of Family Literacy Day is Today!
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: January 27, 2019
Wow! ABC Life Literacy Canada’s Family Literacy Day has survived 20 years, even when numerous literacy organizations across the country have closed their doors. I believe that the challenge of the day and every day in life should be how you and your household will celebrate Family Literacy Day, every day.
As the board chair of Literacy Nova Scotia, it’s important that we encourage our families to read, write and learn together. The theme of Family Literacy Day 2019 is "Take 20" – Take 20 minutes to make learning together part of your every day.
Life is often complicated for families that are busy with time consuming schedules. Spending time each day enjoying literacy activities with your family can make a world of difference. 20 minutes a day of reading together, playing board games or doing other learning activities with your family can have long-lasting benefits for you, your children and grandkids.
Family literacy is about encouraging your children to develop their literacy with enjoyable, skill-building activities. Family literacy also motivates parents to learn new skills too! I would suggest that 20 minutes is not a lot of time. When it results in improving your child's literacy skills and your own motivation to be a lifelong learner, it seems well worth it.
Our communities have many free learning resources available. Public and school libraries in your neighborhood can play a big part in your family learning together.
Since 1992, Literacy Nova Scotia (LNS) has been supporting the literacy community by working to ensure that all Nova Scotians have equal access to quality literacy, essential skills, and lifelong learning opportunities. Our vision is for all Nova Scotians achieve their learning goals and fulfill their potential.
Family Literacy Day isn't just about children. it is also about adults who want to improve their literacy. If you’re an adult seeking help with your GED or you want to enhance your employability skills, contact your local community learning organization. They offer programs to help adults in our communities get the skills they need to advance in their careers and improve their lives.
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Contact:
Danny Cavanagh, LNS Board Chair, 902.957.0822 dannycavanagh@tru.eastlink.ca
Jayne Hunter, LNS Executive Director, 902.897.2444 or 1.800.255.5203 jayne.hunter@nscc.ca
"My Way of Giving Back" — NSPGI 2018 Learner Celebration
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
NSPGI 2018 Learner Celebration
November 19, 2018 from 5:30 - 9:00pm
Old Orchard Inn, Wolfville NS
“I got a good reason to be here,” says musician Ron Edmunds.
Ron will provide the musical entertainment at the NSPGI 2018 Learner Celebration on November 19, from 5:30 to 9:00pm at the Old Orchard Inn in Wolfville. The event includes a reception, dinner, guest speakers, award presentations, and speeches by outstanding adult learners who changed their lives and the lives of those around them by improving their literacy and essential skills.
This event is co-hosted by Literacy Nova Scotia (LNS) and their partners Digby Area Learning Association, Hants Learning Network Association, and Valley Community Learning Association, and made possible by a generous donation from 100 Men Who Give A Damn Annapolis Valley. Tickets are $50 and are available at https://www.literacyns.ca/pgi.htm
“I like playing music at events,” says Ron. “It’s my way of giving back.”
“When I was young, I had trouble with reading. For an epileptic in 1966, there were no answers. They just didn’t know what to do for you. It really hit me when I got off the medication I was taking for the epilepsy and a car accident I was in. When I tried to learn, it would stay with me for a second and then it was gone.”
“When I was in grade 10, seizures started to interfere with everything. I was told to just go out and work and I’d be fine. For me at school, the help I needed wasn’t there.”
Ron sailed with his father and worked at other jobs. About 10 years ago, he attended the InRoads program at the Valley Community Learning Association in Kentville. “It’s incredible what they do there. I saw people going through what I went through. After I was in the accident, I felt I had nowhere to go. I knew I had to read better. At the InRoads program, they helped us get back into our reading.”
“Education, when I was young, wasn’t that important. There was labour and work out there for everybody. Nowadays, you need education for anything, you truly do.”
“The literacy bar rises with each generation,” says LNS Executive Director Jayne Hunter. “We need higher literacy and essential skills to function in every aspect of our lives: as workers, consumers, parents and citizens. At LNS, we work to ensure that literacy and essential skills learning opportunities are available.”
“That’s what life’s about, I guess,” says Ron. “You never stop learning.”
“Music has always been a part of my life, but I really got into performing songs onstage over the past five years,” says Ron. “I play mainly folk music, but I do a variety.” He plans to play some of his old favourites at the NSPGI 2018 Learner Celebration on November 19th.
“My friend at VCLA asked me to play the guitar when I went there for reading,” says Ron, so he took his guitar with him and played every lunchtime and at every event they had. “I’m so impressed with the people who run the programs at the Valley Community Learning Association. I am just amazed at what I see people get out of it.”
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Contact:
Jayne Hunter, LNS Executive Director
902.897.2444 or 1.800.255.5203
jayne.hunter@nscc.ca
Danny Cavanagh, LNS Board Chair
902.957.0822
dannycavanagh@tru.eastlink.ca
Family Literacy Builds the Foundation for a Lifetime
Family Literacy Day is January 27, 2018
Download as a pdf
Literacy and lifelong learning are essential for the social and economic health of our communities. When parents take time each day to enjoy a learning activity with their children, they can improve their children’s literacy skills dramatically, and improve their own skills as well.
On Family Literacy Day, January 27, families across Canada are reminded to make reading and other learning activities a daily part of life. Literacy Nova Scotia joins ABC Life Literacy Canada in encouraging families to spend at least 15 minutes each day enjoying a learning activity together.
Supporting your children’s learning by participating in fun literacy activities with them inspires their love of learning and can improve their engagement and performance at school. Families can provide the foundation for all other learning that will happen throughout their children’s lives.
“Literacy learning does not just happen in schools, and it does not just begin in primary
and end at Grade 12. Literacy learning happens in many ways in our communities.”
~ Nova Scotia Provincial Literacy Strategy, January 2017
Reading books together at bedtime, playing word or math games on paper or a computer or tech device, singing together, helping a relative with writing or helping someone prepare a shopping list are examples of family literacy activities that can be done at home.
Problem solving activities like making a household spending budget together or creating an itinerary for a family day out with the kids can build important math, communications and thinking skills.
Not only do family literacy activities increase the children’s skills; they can help the parents build the confidence to return to formal learning to develop better skills, which can result in more employment opportunities, more paid income, shorter periods of unemployment, and full-time rather than part-time work (International Adult Literacy and Skills Survey, Statistics Canada, OECD, 2005).
Literacy Nova Scotia recognizes that the benefits of improving literacy and essential skills are much more than just economic. Adult learners who return to learning and improve their literacy and essential skills have had their lives positively transformed. Their confidence increases, they get better jobs, and inspire the people around them.
More than ever, it is becoming necessary for people to obtain and improve their essential skills as technology and expectations of core competencies advance. Literacy Nova Scotia works with over thirty community-based programs that provide literacy and essential skills instruction to an estimated 2000 adult learners across the province. We provide professional development, access to information and resources, funding and educational opportunities for learners, and other supports to these organizations.
Our vision is for all Nova Scotians to achieve their learning goals and fulfill their potential. Please become an LNS member! Adults enrolled in learning programs at community learning organizations can join for free.
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Contact:
Jayne Hunter, LNS Executive Director
902.897.2444 or 1.800.255.5203
jayne.hunter@nscc.ca
Danny Cavanagh, LNS Board Chair
902.957.0822
dannycavanagh@tru.eastlink.ca
A Passion and Drive to Succeed:
Literacy Nova Scotia’s 2017-18 Scholarship and Bursary Award Recipients
Download as a pdf
James Foggoa, Ryan Perrin and Susan Shaw are this year’s recipients of Literacy Nova Scotia’s Scholarship Awards, and they will each receive $1500 to help further their education and careers.
James Foggoa (NSCC Akerley) returned to school because he needed a better and more meaningful way to provide for his family. He enrolled in the Oil Heat Systems Technician program at NSCC and is looking forward to learning a skill that will lead him to a good career. His instructor says that James’ dedication to obtaining his GED was unparalleled. “He worked tirelessly over the summer, wrote his GED tests and passed all of them. This quality of individual is not often encountered. As if this was not impressive enough, James did all of this while balancing family life. He achieved his goal while still being an outstanding father figure to his children.”
Ryan Perrin (Dalhousie University) struggled with debilitating illness as a teenager, but later attended the Adult Learning Program and excelled. “Ryan was the first ALP student at NSCC Kingstec to complete the pre-calculus course,” says his instructor. “He has demonstrated outstanding dedication to his studies, and contributes positively to the learning environment by encouraging and supporting his classmates. Ryan is enrolled in Dalhousie University’s Bachelor of Science in Medical Sciences program. As he moves towards his ultimate goal of becoming a medical doctor, Ryan’s determination has only strengthened. I have no doubt that he will achieve his goal.”
Susan Shaw (Hants County Learning Network) returned to learning at age 50. Her goal is to become a counsellor for women and children, and plans to attend NSCC for two years and then go to Acadia University. Susan’s instructor says she is an enthusiastic learner who passed all her GED tests on the first try. “She inspires others with her positive attitude, and works hard until she understands what she is trying to learn and does not give up. Sue is excited about completing her education so she can go into a field that helps others succeed as well.”
Beverly Brace (NSCC Truro) and Twyla Doucet (Yarmouth County Learning Network) are Literacy Nova Scotia’s 2017-18 $500 Bursary award winners. Literacy matters to all of us, every day. Our scholarship and bursary recipients are proof of the positive changes that happen when adults return to learning and improve their literacy and essential skills. They are more likely to be self-reliant and to contribute to their communities. They are better able to maintain their health, financial responsibilities, and civic engagement.
The latest statistics show that 50% of Nova Scotians could improve their lives by improving their literacy skills. Scholarship and bursary awards, and other financial supports for those who decide to upgrade their skills is crucial to their success.
Money raised at the NSPGI Golf Tournament for Literacy is used by Literacy Nova Scotia to fund scholarships and bursaries to learners who are in adult learning programs, or have completed a program and are continuing on to post-secondary education.
Donations can be made any time via CanadaHelps to directly support a learner. Literacy Nova Scotia is a provincial non-profit organization that has been supporting the literacy community since 1992. We provide leadership to advance literacy by ensuring that all Nova Scotians have equal access to quality literacy, essential skills, and lifelong learning opportunities.
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Contact:
Jayne Hunter, LNS Executive Director
902.897.2444 or 1.800.255.5203
jayne.hunter@nscc.ca
Danny Cavanagh, LNS Board Chair
902.957.0822
dannycavanagh@tru.eastlink.ca
Literacy Matters to All of Us, Every Day
Literacy Action Week is November 5 – 11, 2017
Download as a pdf
Why does literacy matter? Because it enables people to better manage their own lives. People who have improved and maintained their Literacy and Essential Skills (Reading, Writing, Numeracy, Document Use, Computer Skills, Oral Communication, Ability to Work with Others, Thinking Skills and Continuous Learning) are more likely to be self-reliant and to contribute to their communities. They are better able to maintain their health, financial responsibilities, and civic engagement.
Since 2001, Literacy Nova Scotia has set aside the first week in November to remind us of the importance of Literacy and Essential Skills, and the role they play in our lives. During Literacy Action Week, we encourage all friends of literacy to take action. Ensuring equal access to quality literacy, essential skills, and lifelong learning opportunities that help all of us meet our potential should be a national priority. Literacy Nova Scotia’s 2017-18 Scholarship and Bursary recipients are shining examples of the positive life changes that happen when adults improve their literacy and essential skills. Congratulations to our scholarship recipients James Foggoa, Ryan Perrin and Susan Shaw and bursary recipients Beverly Brace and Twyla Doucet. Read more.
“The more literate and skilled we become, the better able we are to reach our potential,” says LNS executive director Jayne Hunter. “The level of literacy required to prosper is rising. Regardless of our education level, we all need to be continually learning new things. One hundred years ago, if we could sign our name we were considered literate. That doesn’t cut it today. 50% of Nova Scotians have literacy challenges, given the skills needed to function in today’s society.”
During Literacy Action Week, all Nova Scotians are urged to think about why literacy matters. Where would you be without Literacy and Essential Skills? What can you do to ensure them in the lives of others?
Join the #LAW2017 social media campaign, and tell others why literacy matters to you. You’ll also find the LAW Tool Kit of resources to help you celebrate and promote literacy and essential skills in your community. The tool kit contains a LAW factsheet, adult learner stories, posters and more.
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Contact:
Jayne Hunter, LNS Executive Director
902.897.2444 or 1.800.255.5203
jayne.hunter@nscc.ca
Danny Cavanagh, LNS Board Chair
902.957.0822
dannycavanagh@tru.eastlink.ca
A Letter to the Premiers of the Atlantic Provinces on behalf of the Atlantic Literacy Coalitions
Tuesday, September 12, 2017
Download Letter to Atlantic Premiers
Dear Premier Ball, Premier Gallant, Premier MacLauchlan and Premier McNeil,
Almost 50% of Atlantic Canadians do not have the literacy and essential skills required to work and thrive in a knowledge-based, digital society. There has never been a more important time to support adult and family literacy programs and yet, Literacy Newfoundland and Labrador has already closed its doors, and the impending closure of the PEI Literacy Alliance leaves just Literacy Nova Scotia and the Literacy Coalition of New Brunswick to fill a void that is getting larger.
Please see the letter I am sending to you on behalf of the Atlantic Partnership for Literacy and Essential Skills, a collaboration of the PEI Literacy Alliance, Literacy Nova Scotia and the Literacy Coalition of New Brunswick. This letter addresses the need to re-instate adequate, predictable, and stable funding for literacy and essential skills development in Atlantic Canada.
It is urgent that we receive your attention and action on this issue in order to work together to ensure that Atlantic Canadians continue to have access to much needed literacy and essential skills services.
Amanda Beazley, Executive Director
PEI Literacy Alliance
amanda@peiliteracy.ca
902-368-1810
www.peiliteracy.ca
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Contact:
Jayne Hunter, LNS Executive Director
902.897.2444 or 1.800.255.5203
jayne.hunter@nscc.ca
International Literacy Day 2017
Download as a pdf
Friday September 8, 2017 is International Literacy Day, a time to acknowledge the importance of education, learning and skill development in a rapidly evolving world. Adult literacy programs are vital to Canadians who try to build better lives for themselves and their families. Workers need these programs to gain the essential skills required to participate in our increasingly digital economy. Family literacy programs support skill-building opportunities for children while encouraging essential skill development for parents.
To simply cut funding off to literacy programs doesn’t make economic or moral sense, but that is exactly what is happening. The four Atlantic Literacy Coalitions requested $600,000 – $150,000 of funding for core programs for each, but were denied. The result is that the PEI Literacy Alliance, the long-running not-for-profit provincial organization that has provided tutoring programs, learner scholarships and learning materials to PE Islanders of all ages for more than 25 years will have to close. PEI Literacy Alliance acting executive director Amanda Beazley says the funding cut will force them to shut down this winter, leaving more than 700 children without access to free tutoring.
“Almost 50% of Atlantic Canadians do not have the literacy and essential skills required to work and thrive in a knowledge-based, digital society,” says Literacy Nova Scotia executive director Jayne Hunter. “There has never been a more important time to support adult and family literacy programs, and it is heartbreaking not to have the federal core funding to do so.”
“As our jobs require more and more technical and digital competency, and as we have less time for informal learning with our families because of work schedules, the importance of literacy and essential skill development becomes urgent. Together, our Atlantic provincial literacy coalitions could accomplish a great deal, but Literacy Newfoundland and Labrador closed its doors in 2015, and the impending closure of the PEI Literacy Alliance leaves just us and the Literacy Coalition of New Brunswick to fill a void that is getting larger.”
The federal government must restore core funding to literacy organizations across Canada. Without federal funding, literacy organizations are being forced to reduce critical programs offered and turn away those in need of skills training. Without these programs, thousands of people will not be able to build the skills they need to get better jobs and earn family sustaining wages.
Literacy Nova Scotia (LNS) helps ensure that practitioners can meet the needs of adult learners through certified training and ongoing professional development opportunities. LNS provides referral services, financial supports, resources in the classroom including technology, and funding enhanced learning opportunities. Without federal core funding, our organizational capacity continues to erode and our ability to leverage funds for important project work is significantly diminished.
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Contact:
Jayne Hunter, LNS Executive Director
902.897.2444 or 1.800.255.5203
jayne.hunter@nscc.ca
Danny Cavanagh, LNS Board Chair
902.957.0822
dannycavanagh@tru.eastlink.ca
April 2 - 8, 2017 is Adult Learners’ Week in Nova Scotia
HALIFAX NS — Media is encouraged to attend the raising of the literacy flag at Grand Parade on Monday, April 3 to kick off Adult Learners’ Week in Nova Scotia.
WHAT: Literacy Flag Raising Ceremony
WHEN: April 3, 2017 at 10:00am
WHERE: Grand Parade, 1770 Barrington Street, Halifax NS
WHO: His Worship, Mayor of HRM Mike Savage
Literacy Nova Scotia and Dartmouth Learning Network
WHY: Nova Scotia Adult Learners’ Week celebrates adult learners across the province and the importance of literacy and learning throughout life. Literacy and adult learning are vital in our ever-changing world. More than ever, it is becoming necessary for people to obtain and improve their literacy and essential skills as technologies advance and our society evolves.
Literacy Nova Scotia (LNS) is a provincial non-profit organization that has been supporting the literacy community since 1992. LNS works to ensure that all Nova Scotians have equal access to quality literacy, essential skills, and lifelong learning opportunities.
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Media Contact:
Morgan Beckwith, PR Coordinator
902-897-2444 or 1-800-255-5203
morgan.beckwith@literacyns.ca
NSPGI: Peter Gzowski Invitational Golf Tournament for Literacy Returns to Bell Bay Golf Club, June 18 - 19, 2017
Twenty years after Duncan Gillis first teed off for literacy at the brand new Bell Bay Golf Course in 1998, the Peter Gzowski Invitational Golf Tournament (NSPGI) returns to Bell Bay on June 18 – 19, 2017. This annual fundraising tournament for literacy was the first one ever held at the Bell Bay course.
NSPGI 2017 promises to be a memorable two days of friendship, music, fabulous food, fun, and a great day of golf at what many consider to be Nova Scotia’s most visually stunning golf course, beautiful Bell Bay.
“We are so happy to be organizing NSPGI this year!” says Gillis Truckways Inc president and owner Duncan Gillis. Gillis Truckways Inc of Baddeck have participated in every NSPGI since 1998, and they are partnering with Literacy Nova Scotia (LNS) as NSPGI organizers for 2017.
Duncan Gillis says supporting literacy and education in the workplace is vital. “As a business owner for the past 55 years, you soon realize you are dealing with many levels of education in the people you deal with. Improving literacy and essential communication skills allows you to progress and to keep up.”
 Supporting people in his community who are changing their lives by improving their literacy is also a personal mission for Duncan Gillis. “At an early age, I found myself having to run the family construction business when my father was injured. It was soon obvious that my grade six education left me at a serious disadvantage to other people who were more educated.” Gillis worked diligently to raise his literacy levels while learning to run the family business at the same time.
“I am indebted to my mother, a school teacher who helped me succeed, and I have continued to run the business for over 50 years,” says Gillis. “Literacy is a great cause which helps others in much the same way as my mother helped me. The best thing about NSPGI, besides all the fun we’re going to have on June 18th and 19th here in Baddeck at Bell Bay, is being able to support those who wish to improve their lives.”
“Mickey Woodford, a champion in the Nova Scotia education scene chaired the successful NSPGI 1998 tournament with an impressive turn out and great financial results. My wife Beth and I hope we can be as successful, and will try our best to have as many teams as possible return for our 20th Anniversary in support of this extremely worthwhile cause! We hope to pay tribute to Mickey, Marvin Harvey, another champion educator, and others at this event.”
The PGI Golf Tournaments were founded by legendary CBC broadcaster Peter Gzowski in the late 1980’s. Today there are PGI events in every province and territory, and to date, over $13.9 million has been raised by generous supporters of literacy and essential skills across Canada.
The organizers of NSPGI 1998 were thrilled to have Peter Gzowski attend, along with former Nova Scotia Premier Dr. John Savage, musician John Allan Cameron, and politicians Bernie Boudreau and Richie Mann. Over 200 golfers enjoyed two days of a rollicking great time that included a Barra MacNeil concert the evening before the tournament, and a beautiful day of golf the next day with a feed of lobster afterwards. A total of $80,000 was raised at NSPGI 1998 to help enrich literacy programs in Nova Scotia.
NSPGI 2017 organizers hope to surpass that amount this year! Sign up at www.nspgi.ca and be a part of this special event! You can register a team or sign up as an individual player. Your registration will include 18 holes of golf, cart, snacks and beverages on the course, and a banquet with golf prizes following play on June 19th.
Tickets are also available to the NSPGI Gala and Awards Dinner on June 18th which includes a 3 course awards dinner, silent auction & entertainment. Sponsorship opportunities are available. Help us change lives through literacy. Net revenue raised at NSPGI 2017 helps ensure that Literacy Nova Scotia will be able to support adult learners.
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Contact:
Jayne Hunter, LNS Executive Director
902.897.2444 or 1.800.255.5203
jayne.hunter@nscc.ca
Family Literacy Celebration – 2000 New Books to Give Away
Updated January 24, 2017
Our Family Literacy Celebration and Book Giveaway is on Saturday January 28, 2017 at the Dartmouth North Community Centre, 105 Highfield Park Drive, Dartmouth. The event is from 12 noon to 4 p.m. Media is encouraged to attend!
Download the poster at http://literacyns.ca//docs/FLD/FLD2017-poster.pdf
Over 2000 new children’s Disney books have been donated to Literacy Nova Scotia. A book giveaway, live music and public readings will take place. Beverages and snacks will be served. Volunteer drivers will form a parade as they leave with boxes of books to be delivered to community learning organizations across the province.
Schedule:
12:00 noon: Welcome from HRM Mayor The Honourable Mike Savage
12:00 noon – 2:00 pm: Children’s Book Readings
Guests will be joining us to read from their favorite children’s story.
Readers:
- Author Sheree Fitch
- Senator Terry Mercer
- The Honourable Darren Fisher, MP Dartmouth / Cole Harbour
- Author Starr Dobson
- HRM Councillor Tony Mancini, Harbourview / Burnside / Dartmouth East
- The Honourable Joanne Bernard, MLA Dartmouth North
- HRM Poet Laureate Rebecca Thomas
2:15 pm – 3:15 pm: Fairy tale Princesses Belle and Tiana will entertain us!
3:30 pm: Parade of volunteer drivers delivering books across the province departs
“Taking time every day to read or do a learning activity with children is crucial to a child’s development. Even just 15 minutes a day can improve a child’s literacy skills dramatically, and can help a parent improve their skills as well,” says Danny Cavanagh, LNS Board Chair.
In Nova Scotia, we value literacy and how important learning in the home is. It is why many prominent Halifax Regional Municipality politicians and citizens will be joining us in our celebrations.
People from across the country will be celebrating Family Literacy Day on January 27, a national awareness initiative created by ABC Life Literacy Canada. The initiative is celebrated annually, and raises awareness of the importance of reading and engaging in other literacy related activities as a family.
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Contact:
Jayne Hunter, LNS Executive Director
902.897.2444 or 1.800.255.5203
jayne.hunter@nscc.ca
Literacy Nova Scotia’s 2016-17 Scholarship and Bursary Award Recipients
Wednesday November 23, 2016 - Laken Betts (NSCC Truro) and Michael Lake (NSCC Burridge) are this year’s winners of Literacy Nova Scotia’s Scholarship Awards, and each will receive $1500 to help further their education and career aspirations.
Laken Betts has successfully completed the Adult Learning Program at NSCC Truro, and is a changed person. “Due to the lack of self-confidence, I had never imagined going back to school for post-secondary education. I didn’t fully appreciate the positive effect that ALP had on me until I graduated and took the time to reflect on my experience. I have a deep sense of pride in myself for going back to school. My time in the program made me realize just how capable I was.”
NSCC instructors say they have seen “tremendous growth in Laken, not only academically but in her personal growth. The once shy, quiet young woman that came into the program left a confident and vibrant individual who reaches out to others. Her strong work ethic supported her as she always sought to improve her knowledge and skill in a subject.”
Michael Lake returned to school because he felt he needed a better education in order to improve his opportunities and to serve as a positive role model to his son. “I spent years in Alberta trying to make a living while having no certification in construction. Now I have the opportunity to achieve something I always assumed was beyond me. I realize just how much potential I have. My career goals are, in my opinion, well within my reach. I plan to finish my apprenticeship in welding, and then I will pursue my ticket in millwright and machining.”
Michael’s instructor describes him as “one of the most naturally talented and hardworking students with whom I have had the opportunity to work with. Michael’s positive work ethic was clearly evident here at NSCC Burridge in his ability to successfully challenge the GED, whilst maintaining a full time job and supporting his young child. His GED results reflected both his hard work and abilities, particularly the science and reading elements which both ranked him in the 99th percentile.”
Cameron Milner (NSCC Truro), Danielle DeCoff (Port Hawkesbury Literacy Council) and Kylie Powder (NSCC Burridge) are Literacy Nova Scotia’s 2016-17 $500 Bursary award winners.
Access to literacy and essential skills programs gives adults the capability to address poverty by improving their self-confidence and increasing their skill levels so they can find better employment.
Literacy can reduce the inequalities caused by poverty and give tools for social unity. Parents are learning models for their children. The International Adult Literacy Survey points out that children of parents with higher levels of education and literacy are more likely to read and do better in school. A child whose parent(s) did not graduate from high school is twice as likely to live in poverty as a child whose parent(s) did graduate (National Centre for Children in Poverty, 1992).
Money raised at the NSPGI Golf Tournament for Literacy is used by Literacy Nova Scotia to fund scholarships and bursaries to learners who are in adult learning programs, or have completed a program and are continuing on to post-secondary education. Two scholarships and 3 bursaries were awarded to adult learners from across the province.
The latest statistics show that 50% of Nova Scotians could improve their lives by improving their literacy skills. Financial support for those who decide to upgrade their skills is crucial to their success.
“It’s so encouraging to know that we are able to offer support to students like our 2016-17 Scholarship and Bursary winners. But for every Laken or Michael, there are many others who will not receive this support. We had to say no to helping 17 others make a difference in their lives and the lives of their families. That’s heartbreaking when we know how little it takes to make a difference and change a life,” says LNS Executive Director Jayne Hunter.
Donations can be made any time via CanadaHelps to directly support a learner. Literacy Nova Scotia is a provincial non-profit organization that has been supporting the literacy community since 1992. LNS works to ensure that all Nova Scotians have equal access to quality literacy, essential skills, and lifelong learning opportunities. It does this by sharing information, doing research and by supporting learners, practitioners and organizations.
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Contact:
Jayne Hunter, LNS Executive Director
902.897.2444 or 1.800.255.5203
jayne.hunter@nscc.ca
Knowledge Trumps Ignorance: Literacy Empowers Us
Literacy Action Week, November 6 - 12, 2016
Read more about #LAW2016
People with low literacy face more challenges to participating in their community and typically have very limited political awareness and are less likely to vote in elections. Literacy skills are fundamental to informed decision-making.
Literacy is the foundation on which healthy societies are built. When we value and promote literacy for everyone, we help ensure that families are resilient, workplaces are safer and productive, and communities are happier and more prosperous. 
Literacy makes people aware of their basic human rights and enables them to protect those rights and the rights of others. People who have improved and maintained their Literacy and Essential Skills (Reading, Writing, Numeracy, Document Use, Computer Skills, Oral Communication, Ability to Work with Others, Thinking Skills and Continuous Learning) are better able to manage their own lives. They are self-reliant and able to contribute to their communities.
“Literacy provides access to knowledge and knowledge is power. The more literate and skilled we become, the better able we are to reach our potential,” says LNS executive director Jayne Hunter. “The level of literacy required to prosper is rising, regardless of our education level, we all need to be continually learning new things. One hundred years ago, if we could sign our name we were considered literate. That doesn’t cut it today.” 50% of Nova Scotians have literacy challenges, given the skills needed to function in society today.
Since 2001, Literacy Nova Scotia has set aside the first week in November to celebrate, promote and acknowledge the many roles that Literacy and Essential Skills play in the lives of every citizen in Nova Scotia. During Literacy Action Week, we encourage all friends of literacy to take action and to tell others about the importance of these skills in everyone’s life. Think about the role that literacy plays in your own life and the difficulties and dangers that low literacy allows.
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Contact:
Jayne Hunter, LNS Executive Director
902.897.2444 or 1.800.255.5203
jayne.hunter@nscc.ca
Danny Cavanagh, LNS Board Chair
902.957.0822
dannycavanagh@tru.eastlink.ca
Connie Kaldor Benefit Concert for Adult Literacy at the Grace Jollymore Joyce Arts Centre in Tatamagouche, June 7
May 26, 2016 - Juno Award winning artist Connie Kaldor has toured around the world performing her original songs that evoke the powerful and unique presence of the Canadian prairies. Connie Kaldor is “a masterful performer, wildly funny one moment, deeply personal the next.” - The Boston Globe
On June 7 at 7:30pm, Connie will play a benefit concert at the Grace Jollymore Joyce Arts Centre in Tatamagouche in support of adult learners in Nova Scotia. Her sons, musicians Aleksi and Gabriel Campagne will join her on stage for an evening that is not to be missed! Doors open at 6:30pm.
Download Poster
Tickets are $25.00 and are available at the Grace Jollymore Joyce Arts Centre, Fulton’s Pharmacy in Tatamagouche, and by etransfer online at creamerysquare.ca/tickets.
Funds raised from this benefit concert will be used by Literacy Nova Scotia to support the more than 2,000 adults enrolled in the +30 community-based programs in this province.
Concert proceeds will help people like Pamala, an NSPGI award recipient who decided to return to education because she knew it was the only way she could achieve the future she desired. The single mother of two faced the challenge of balancing school with home life, but her determination and eagerness to learn helped her overcome the challenge. “Adult Learning has changed my life, and I can now walk into a room and hold my head high.”
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For more information contact:
Jayne Hunter, LNS
902-897-2444 or jayne.hunter@nscc.ca
Event information:
Tuesday June 7, 2016 at 7:30 pm - Doors open at 6:30
Grace Jollymore Joyce Arts Centre, 31 Creamery Road, Tatamagouche NS
Literacy Nova Scotia’s Adult Learners’ Week Celebration
Thursday March 31, 2016, 4:45 to 6:30pm
TRURO NS — Literacy Nova Scotia (LNS) will celebrate Adult Learners’ Week in Nova Scotia (April 3 - 9, 2016) with a special presentation from 5 adult learners who will share their success stories. The learners are speaking at LNS’ annual PD Conference for Adult Literacy Practitioners with close to 80 people in attendance from across the province. Press is encouraged to attend.
WHAT: Adult Learners’ Week celebrates adult learners and the joy of learning throughout life. You are invited to hear 5 adult learners who will speak at this event. The learners will be available for press interviews.
WHEN: Thursday March 31, 2016, 4:45 to 6:30pm
WHERE: Holiday Inn Hotel & Conference Centre, 437 Prince Street, Truro NS
Parking available
WHO:
- Terry Westhaver who attends classes at Queens Learning Network
- Sarah Harrison who attends classes at Cumberland Adult Network for Upgrading
- LNS Scholarship winner Tanya Morton who attends classes at NSCC Truro Campus. Tanya returned to learning after being out of the school system for many years. “Tanya’s work ethic is one of persistence, determination and following through on what needs to be done,” say her instructors. “She is supportive of others in the program and has grown both academically and personally during her time at NSCC”.
- LNS Scholarship winner Bijou Dlamini who attends classes at the NSCC Truro Campus. Bijou fled from the Congo and spent several years living in refugee camps before being placed in a South African orphanage. “Education is important to me because when I was a child I was unable to go to school.” Bijou’s instructors at NSCC Truro describe her as very conscientious with an ‘incredible’ work ethic.
- 2009 Adult Learners’ Week Contest Winner Marcia Jeffers who graduated from the Nova Scotia School for Adult Learning six years ago and now works in the health care field as a Continuing Care Assistant. Marcia’s confidence soared with adult learning and she has become a champion for higher education.
WHY: Adult Learners’ Week (ALW) is an annual celebration of lifelong learning. It is the highlight of Literacy Nova Scotia’s year. At LNS, we are inspired by the learners and we work hard to support them through scholarships and bursaries and the PGI financial awards. We produce the LNS eNews and an electronic magazine The Learning Beacon, which is available free to the world online and is now being produced in a tablet friendly version.
Literacy Nova Scotia to Host Family Literacy Day Event
Saturday January 9, 2016, from 11am to 1pm
HALIFAX NS: The inaugural Literacy Nova Scotia Book Packing & Delivery event will be held this Saturday in preparation for Family Literacy Day. Press is encouraged to attend.
WHAT: Over 1,500 children’s Disney books have been donated to Literacy Nova Scotia. This Saturday, approximately 50 volunteers will help back and prepare boxes of books for delivery to 20 Nova Scotia communities in preparation for Family Literacy Day. The event will feature a short presentation by Jayne Hunter, LNS Executive Director. LNS memberships will be sold for $5. Beverages and snacks will be served.
WHEN: Saturday January 9, 2016 from 11am to 1pm
WHERE: 142 Piggott Avenue
Fall River, NS B2T 1S6
Street parking available
WHO: The following officials will be in attendance -
HRM Deputy Mayor Matt Whitman, Councillor in HRM District 13
Bill Horne, MLA Waverley-Fall River-Beaverbank, representing the province on behalf of the Premier
Marian Mancini, MLA Dartmouth South
Darren Fisher, MP Dartmouth-Cole Harbour
Darrell Samson, MP Sackville-Preston-Chezzetcook
WHY: Family Literacy Day, which first began in 1999, is celebrated across Nova Scotia with fundraisers, book drives, reading circles, and other themed events that raise awareness of the importance of reading and literacy-based activities in the family. These books will be delivered to families across Nova Scotia who could most benefit in time for Family Literacy Day.
Persistence, Determination and Giving Back
Literacy Nova Scotia’s 2015-16 Scholarship Award Recipients
October 30, 2015
NSCC Truro students Bijou Diamini and Tanya Morton are this year’s winners of Literacy Nova Scotia’s Scholarship Awards, and each will receive $1500 to help further their education and career aspirations. “Scholarship funding is vital for adult learners,” says LNS Executive Director Jayne Hunter, “and is often the difference between being able to continue in a learning program or having to drop out.”
Bijou is a 2nd year Child and Youth Care student who fled from the Congo and spent several years living in refugee camps before being placed in a South African orphanage. “Education is important to me because when I was a child I was unable to go to school.”
Bijou’s NSCC instructors describe her as very conscientious with an ‘incredible’ work ethic. “Bijou has an innate resilience for anything that comes her way, and she has always demonstrated a love, care and concern for education and for the community.”
Tanya, who is currently enrolled in the Continuing Care Assistant Program, returned to learning after being out of the school system for many years. “The thought of going back was a question, because I didn’t believe in myself that I actually could do it. Now that I’m in the CCA program, I know that I can do anything that I put my mind to.”
“Tanya’s work ethic is one of persistence, determination and following through on what needs to be done,” say her instructors. “She is supportive of others in the program and has grown both academically and personally during her time at NSCC Truro”.
Access to literacy and essential skills programs gives adults the capability to address poverty by improving their self-confidence and increasing their skill levels so they can find better employment. “Besides Bijou and Tanya, LNS received ten other scholarship and bursary award applications from deserving adult learners who may be struggling financially,” says Jayne. “We urge the public to help adult learners in Nova Scotia by making a donation to LNS and supporting our fundraising efforts.” Donations can be made any time via CanadaHelps.
Money raised at the NSPGI Golf Tournament for Literacy is used by LNS to fund scholarships and bursaries to learners who are in adult learning programs, or have completed a program and are continuing on to post-secondary education.
This Fall, LNS is Holiday Inn Truro’s Charity of Choice. You can help adult learners by attending these upcoming events at Holiday Inn Truro from now until December 31:
- Maritime Buffet Breakfast on October 31: LNS receives the coat check tips.
- Ugly Christmas Sweater Party Buffet and Dance on November 27: LNS receives a $5 donation for every $40 ticket sold, and coat check tips.
- Any Christmas Parties booked from now until December 31, including the New Year’s Eve Dinner & Dance: LNS receives the coat check tips. So far, there are parties booked on November 27 and 28, and December 5, 12, 18 and 19. Are you interested in volunteering on any of these dates? Email literacyns@nscc.ca
- ‘Take the Elevator Home’ post-Christmas party guestrooms: LNS receives a $10 donation for every room sold when you book with the term “Take the Elevator Home”.
Books for Belize: A Little Goes a Long Way
In Celebration of International Literacy Day 2015, Literacy Nova Scotia donates over 220 books to a project that will help learners and teachers in 115 schools in Belize.
September 8, 2015
We believe that access to books can make a huge difference. Helping individuals improve their literacy has a positive impact, not only for them but for their families and communities.
We’re excited about a new opportunity to reach beyond our country’s borders and improve literacy in the Central American country of Belize – just in time for International Literacy Day on September 8th!
Mount Saint Vincent University, contracted under the Ministry of Education, Youth & Culture and the Inter America Development Bank (IDB), is in the process of helping Belize transition their method of teaching and learning. The four year project will involve 115 schools and over 2000 teachers. Mount Saint Vincent University professors, Dr. Andrew Manning, director, and Dr. Alan Dawe, coordinator are spearheading the project.
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This past August, a group of educators, comprised of volunteers and hired staff, travelled to Belize to help with the curriculum transition in the subjects of English Language Arts, Science, and Math. This is the first three-week trip of a series of trips to Belize that are set over the four year project term.
The purpose of the experimental project is to create a learning environment that provides a ‘hands on, minds on education’ where teachers and learners can continuously grow together.
“The big problem is the lack of resources,” says Dr. Alan Dawe.
In Belize, the teachers will attend workshops, receive guidance from coaches, and be provided with teaching tools and resources. Dawe explained that many of the teachers know what needs to be done, but unfortunately do not have the resources to accomplish it.
The books Literacy Nova Scotia (LNS) donated to the project will be equally divided among the 115 schools. The number of books each school will receive from LNS will be diminutive; however, the impact is huge. Prior to this project, Belizeans have found it difficult to find additional reading material besides school textbooks, and especially hard to get appropriate and interesting reading material. The purchased and donated resources provided by this project will change this.
“We want to teach reading as a love of reading, not as a subject,” claims Dawe. The resources donated by LNS will help make this possible.
The goal is to provide the resources and training for a curriculum that moves away from lecturing and memorization, and follows a way of student centered learning. The project coaches will work to ensure that the changes being made can be sustainable and advanced by training Belizeans to be coaches and monitors. After the four year project concludes, the people of Belize will then take the jobs of the Canadian educators, creating employment opportunities for Belize.
When considering the current state of reading in Belize, Dr Alan Dawe says “There is a need for a lot of change, and for this change to last.” We at LNS are thrilled to support this project, and we hope to hear stories about the impact the gift of reading has on individuals in Belize in the coming years.
Literacy Nova Scotia’s mission is to ensure that all Nova Scotians have equal access to quality literacy, essential skills and lifelong learning opportunities. We celebrate learning whenever and wherever it happens!
Read more about International Literacy Day.
Peter Gzowski Invitational Raises over $70,000 for Literacy Supports in Nova Scotia
June 11, 2015
On June 10, 2015 the 22nd annual Nova Scotia Peter Gzowski Invitational (NSPGI) golf tournament for literacy took place at The Links at Penn Hills in Shubenacadie.
The golf tournament was kicked off with a night before concert held at the Balmoral Kirk in Tatamagouche. Performing was former member of the great Canadian band Prairie Oyster, Russell deCarle and his band members, Steve Briggs and Denis Keldie. All funds raised were donated to the NSPGI to support adult learning.
The following day, golfers and literacy advocates across the province gathered to celebrate the achievements of adult learners in Nova Scotia and the legacy of the CBC radio broadcaster, Peter Gzowski. Special guests: Tom Harrington, Sheree Fitch, Steve Armitage, Don Connolly, and Sandy Smith; and videographer and Peter Gzowski’s son, Mick attended the event.
Despite the drizzle, the day was a success raising $70,925. Besides a day on the green at Shubenacadie, golfers were inspired by the stories of two exceptional adult learners.
“I believe in literacy,” said Duncan Gillis, owner of Gillis Truckways Inc. Gillis has played at the NSPGI for 18 consecutive years. “When I see those people give their speeches that have come from [low literacy] to where they are now it’s really encouraging and a nice thing to see.”
Pamala Pick, from Centreville, was awarded the Nova Learning Inc. Nova Scotia Learner Award for her dedication and outstanding achievements. The 39-year-old single mother of two has faced many challenges, but with dedication and support from her instructors at the NSCC Kinstec Campus, she persevered.
“She is the type of student that Literacy Nova Scotia is all about, and she is the type of student that makes a teacher excited to come to work every day,” says Pick’s instructor, Trevor Capern, with tears in his eyes. “After one year, I had instructors from post-secondary programs at the college coming to me telling me that Pam was teaching their students how to write effectively.”
Pick will receive her high school diploma in June of 2015. She has been accepted into the Community Disability Supports Program at the NSCC Kingstec Campus. “This experience has changed my life, and I can now walk into a room and hold my head high.”
Rachel Teah, recipient of the Nova Scotia Business Inc. Learner Achievement Award, left Liberia with a Grade 3 education. After arriving in Canada, she realized the majority of jobs require at least a high school diploma. Teah decided to take the next step in the right direction to reach her goal of becoming an accountant.
“When I started at the Cunard Learning Centre, it was difficult to understand what I was learning. Writing a simple letter used to be a huge challenge for me, but after a few months of studying, it became much easier.”
Education provided Teah with literacy and essential skills, as well as self-assurance. When the English as an Additional Language (EAL) program was in jeopardy of being cut she took it upon herself to voice her concern to the local MLA.
Funds from the NSPGI have allowed Literacy Nova Scotia to support adult learners like Pick and Teah who have been empowered by literacy.
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Contact Information:
Jayne Hunter, Executive Director
Literacy Nova Scotia
902-897-2444
jayne.hunter@nscc.ca
https://www.literacyns.ca/
Adult Learners' Week: April 11 – 19, 2015
What better way for adult learners to celebrate their successes than by putting their stories into words?
Friday April 17, 2015
On April 17, Literacy Nova Scotia celebrated Adult Learners’ Week by inviting adult learners to share their stories in essays. What better way for adult learners to celebrate their successes than by putting their stories into words? During the Adult Learners’ Week Celebration, four adult learners had the opportunity to share the stories of their successes by reading their winning essays.
The winners, Jon Adams, Tiffany Rhodenizer, Mahnaz Musawi and Samantha Lundrigan talked about the programs they completed, what they learned, how literacy has changed their lives, and their goals for the future.
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Jon Adams recently completed the Options Work Activity Program where he discovered a love for math. “It's very hands-on, appealing to my analytical mind and as an added bonus it is useful for my vintage television repair hobby,” Jon says in his essay.
As for his future, Jon wants to explore studies in science technology at NSCC. But Jon knows he’s now on the right road: “Any piece of paper that says I have completed a course only means that the foundation has been placed,” he says. “I must continue to practice and apply whatever I learn to get the full benefit.”
Tiffany Rhodenizer is a mom to two young children and a student at the Pictou Country Continuous Learning Association, a program she credits for changing her life completely. “After enrolling at PiCCoLA, my life has changed for the better and I’m looking forward to the future,” she says.
Tiffany says she wants to work as a burn specialist or a continuous care assistant. But she says the program is also benefitting her children. “I got a lot of experience to live better for myself and my family,” she says. “I now feel more confident in everything I do.”
Twenty-year-old Mahnaz Musawi is a student at the Cunard Learning Centre. Afghani by nationality and born in Iran, she came to Canada in 2012 after she got married. Eager to learn, she started her studies at ISANS where she says her teachers were encouraging and helpful. “When I didn’t understand he explained it to me very well,” she says. “And, he told me it is never too late to learn and return to school and get an education.”
Today, Mahnaz is now working and saving for university where she’d like to study pharmacy. She says she’s grateful coming to Canada has given her the opportunity to learn. “I love Canada because I can study,” she explains. “I am like another person in Canada now. I wish to have an education for every child in the world because education and learning change our lives very much.”
Samantha Lundrigan is 26 and the mom to a three-year-old boy. She struggled in school, was known as one of the “bad kids,” and eventually dropped out to work full time.
She returned to school, enrolling at the Bedford-Sackville Learning Network where she says she loves seeing her classmates and even her teacher’s smile. “It makes me feel like I am accepted and I belong and for the right reasons,” she says. “Having a friendly and patient teacher makes a world of difference.” The biggest difference she says school has made in her life is her own self-perspective.
“I no longer see myself just as a street smart girl,” she says. “I also see an intelligent book smart woman who can do anything she puts her mind to.”
Adult Learners' Week: April 11 – 19, 2015
“My life has changed for the better and I am looking forward to the future.”
Friday April 17, 2015
Tiffany Rhodenizer watches as her four-year-old daughter is learning how to print and pictures the limitless opportunities that her daughter’s future will entail. Tiffany knows the opportunities that learning will bring to her daughter’s life because of the role learning has in her own life.
Tiffany is one of Literacy Nova Scotia’s Adult Learners’ Week contest winners for 2015. Her essay was the winning submission in the Community-based Levels I & II Category. Tiffany read her essay to the audience at the Adult Learners’ Week Celebration in Halifax on Friday, April 17.
Tiffany was a 19-year-old mother of two children, both under the age of three, when she decided to change her life. She and her fiancé were finding it difficult to make ends meet and she knew that it was time to change her life around. Tiffany often pondered the thought of going back to school, and after confiding in a friend about her dream to return to her studies Tiffany made the next move.
In 2013 Tiffany enrolled in the Pictou County Continuous Learning Association (PiCCoLA), a non-profit based organization that provides adults with equal opportunity to education. Making this decision gave Tiffany confidence, not only as a student but also as a parent.
“I’m grateful for PiCCoLA,” says Tiffany. Through the programs and activities PiCCoLA offers, Tiffany has developed in ways that she did not know were possible. She is especially grateful for Nikki, a teacher who runs the family literacy program on Wednesday evenings. As a mother, Tiffany’s children motivate her to continue learning; therefore, it is extremely rewarding when her children are included in her learning experience at PiCCoLA.
PiCCoLA has allowed Tiffany to lay the foundation needed to reach her goals. Tiffany’s future goals are to work in the field of health care. She realized her passion for taking care of others when her mother required care after undergoing a surgery and having some complications. This was reinforced when her daughter burned her hand on a woodstove, and Tiffany had to properly clean and dress the wound.
Through PiCCoLA, Tiffany is determined to reach her goal and set a positive example for her family, showing them that anything is possible if you work hard enough. Learning has changed Tiffany’s life and she realizes it can change the lives of those around her – she wants to be a part of encouraging literacy within her community. “I’ve never been happier with myself.”
Canadian Adult Learners’ Week (April 11 – 19, 2015) celebrates adult learners across the country and the joy of learning throughout life.
Literacy Nova Scotia is a not-for-profit charitable umbrella organization that works to ensure that all Nova Scotians have equal access to quality literacy, essential skills, and lifelong learning opportunities. We have been supporting the literacy community since 1992. Visit our website: http://www.literacyns.ca.
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