About Us
History
Literacy for Life Foundation has been providing free and low-cost programs to the MD of Foothills #31 since 1998, starting with the introduction of the Building Blocks Family Literacy Program to High River and area. This program was a pilot project begun by the Rainbow Literacy Society of Vulcan County and was part of an initiative looking at ways to provide family literacy in rural communities. At the time, the Municipal District of Foothills, #31 lacked a body that coordinated and promoted literacy. Interested community members formed a group and in 1998 became a non-profit society called Literacy for Life Foundation. The organization received charity status in January of 1999.
Also in 1999, Literacy for Life applied to the province for the Volunteer Adult Tutor Literacy Program (VTALP), funded by Alberta Advanced Education. The Foothills School Division agreed to be the legal host authority for a few years and then the government transferred the authority to Literacy for Life. The VTALP program continues to be a core program.
Family literacy grew from the one program “Building Blocks” to numerous programs. Building Blocks In-home Family Literacy program is now considered a provincial model. Literacy for Life and Rainbow Literacy employees are trainers for the program.
The next programs to be developed were Rhythm and Rhyme and Toddler Time. High River Library had a program called “Books for Babies” which was discontinued due to limited resources. At the suggestion of the library Director, a partnership with Literacy for Life led to the Books for Babies program we now provide. Programming grew to include development and provision of programs for adults and families, training and education and public awareness activities.
Today
Our programs are provided at little or no cost to the learner, family or community agency. We count on grants, fundraising and donations and the help of volunteers to raise the money needed to provide the service.
- Literacy is a cornerstone issue in the community where you live.
- Literacy for Life is locally organized and makes a difference close to home.
- Literacy for Life believes in quality programs and listens to the families and learners they serve.
- Literacy for Life Foundation believes that children and adults must feel comfortable and safe in our programs and that all community members should be able to get the support they need.
To find out how you can help us continue providing free and low-cost programs to all residents of the MD of Foothills, click here.
What is Literacy?
For most people, literacy means reading and writing. But what about...
- using and filling out forms and documents?
- making change or balancing your cheque book?
- talking to others so they understand?
- being able to listen and understand others?
- getting along with co-workers and people in your community?
- solving problems?
- using a computer, cell phone or other technology?
Did you know...
We need to "Get the Word Out" about literacy and learning. 48% of adults in Alberta have difficulty with literacy that interferes in their day-to-day life and of those 48%, half of them have major difficulty that greatly impacts on their home, work and community life.
Click here to find out how to make literacy and learning a part of every day life, for life.
