Community spirt was on full display at Annex Park on April 26 during the Lace Up for Literacy 5K.

This marked the first time the Columbia Basin Alliance for Literacy (CBAL) has hosted the event in Fernie, drawing participants of all ages who ran, walked, and rode to show their support for literacy.

One determined youngster kept pace with his mother and sibling by biking alongside a stroller, while others added a playful touch to the day in elaborate costumes.

“Moments like this remind us that literacy isn’t just about reading and writing, it’s about connection, confidence, and community,” said Tanya Malcolm, Event Coordinator and Youth Program Coordinator.

All proceeds from Fernie’s Lace Up for Literacy go directly toward CBAL’s free community programs in the East Kootenay. The same event was also held in Castlegar in support of CBAL programs in the West Kootenay.

CBAL’s literacy and lifelong learning programs support children, youth, families, and adults in gaining essential life skills through offerings such as digital technology workshops, one-to-one reading programs, and cooking programs.

A big thank you to everyone who participated in person and virtually, and to our incredible volunteers who made this event such a success!

With such an enthusiastic response in its first year, Lace Up for Literacy is already shaping up to be an annual Fernie spring tradition.

Lead image: (Left to right) – Eden MacGregor, Patty Villasenor and Yori Jamin take part in Lace Up for Literacy 5K. Photo by Bailey Hill

Columbia Basin Alliance for Literacy

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