Adult learners around the Cariboo region will get help to improve their literacy and numeracy skills thanks to projects funded through the Community Adult Literacy Program (CALP) and the Ministry of Advanced Education (MAE).
An investment of $65,000, up $10,000 from last year, is slated for 100 Mile House Cariboo Chilcotin Partners for Literacy (CCPL) with $35,000 going towards Partner Assisted Learning (PAL) and $30,000 towards Reaching Learners - South Cariboo.
"Every year, we apply for funding. The [MAE] usually approves our application and we're thankful it was increased from the $55,000 last year."
Projects funded under CALP provide instruction and support to adult learners in everything from basic literacy to secondary school completion.
“Education and literacy can be a lifeline for people in the community," says Cariboo-Chilcotin MLA Donna Barnett. "Every time someone chooses education, they are increasing their chances of personal success.”
Focus is also put on the individual goals of learners, such as improving their literacy skills in order to enhance the quality of their lives, improve their employment opportunities, further their education and increase their involvement in their families and communities, Joyner explains.
"This is so important to our community; it offers the availability of one to one service with long term and short term literacy needs. Donna [Barnett] has always been very supportive and very helpful in terms of the funding."
The local CCPL offers one-on-one tutoring by trained volunteers, Joyner says, adding there are small group classes and other types of learning tailored to adults, Aboriginal learners, young parents and others in the community in need of support.
Ongoing classes held in Graduation Routes Other Ways (GROW) rooms at 475 Birch Ave., offer basic classes for families with young children. These sessions have free lunches and child care.
Another free program, which should start within the next two weeks is a pilot learning cafe' during which adults can receive tutoring and have use of the computers.
"We also help with short-term needs, such as filling out forms and applications," says Joyner. "Our roaming advocate Diana Badke offers one-on-one service for up to six sessions."
For more information on CCPL, call Joyner at 250-395-9303.