“What a extraordinary evening,” remarked Gillian Mason, President of ABC Life Literacy Canada (ABC) reflecting on Life Literacy Night 2015. “Our guests included some of the most innovative literacy practitioners from across the country together with people who ‘get it’—supporters of literacy, corporate partners, a provincial government Minister, the Canada Employment Insurance Commissioner representing employers, union representatives, volunteers and others. At time when the need to invest in Canadian’s literacy proficiency has never been greater this augurs well for the meeting the considerable challenge ahead.”

 

Eighty guests met on September 17 at the stunning Thompson Landry Gallery in Toronto’s Distillery District to celebrate excellence in community and workplace literacy. Camesha Cox, Founding Director of The Reading Partnership and long-time friend to ABC, hosted the event which served to raise awareness about the great need for improved literacy and essential skills in Canada and to bestow several awards on organizations and individuals who are making a difference in creating positive change in the lives of Canadians.

 

Each year the Great-West Life, London Life and Canada Life Literacy Innovation Award recognizes organizations that develop and implement innovative adult literacy programs that provide outstanding learning opportunities for their clients and communities. The 2015 top winner, receiving $20,000, was the Miqqut Program from Ilitaqsiniq – Nunavut Literacy Council from Rankin Inlet, NU. Four honourable mentions, each receiving $5,000, were awarded to: OUR hiSTORIES program from Alexandra Park Neighbourhood Learning Centre in Toronto, ON; formation à distance from Coalition ontarienne de formation des adultes in Ottawa, ON; Hammer Heads in Toronto, ON; and the Out and About with Leslie program from Literacy Alberni Society in Port Alberni, BC. 

 

The Dr. Alan Middleton Workplace Literacy and Learning Award, which recognizes an individual for their outstanding achievement in workplace literacy and essential skills was presented to Herman Hansen, ‪Senior Manager, Human Resources at Boeing Commercial Airplanes.

 

 

 

Mitzie Hunter MPP, Scarborough-Guildwood:

“We know that literacy improves career outcomes, earning potential and financial management. Literacy is a fundamental building block for our society. When we empower adults with literacy, we ensure that their children and future generations are poised for success. Life Literacy Night showcased some of the successful ways that ABC Life Literacy Canada is working with businesses and community groups across the country, to help adults improve their skills.”

 

Judith Andrew, Commissioner (Employers), Canada Employment Insurance Commission: 

 “Life Literacy Night was a wonderful opportunity to meet ABC Life Literacy Canada supporters and to commend the honorees, all of whom work tirelessly on strategies and programs to upgrade adult essential skills.”   

 

 

 

ABC Life Literacy Canada is a non-profit organization that inspires Canadians to increase their literacy skills. We mobilize business, government and communities to support lifelong learning and achieve our goals through leadership in programs, communications and partnerships. ABC Life Literacy Canada envisions a Canada where everyone has the skills they need to live a fully engaged life. For the latest news and information on adult literacy please visit www.abclifeliteracy.ca, follow us on Twitter or join our Facebook page.