Adult learners around the region will get help to improve their literacy and numeracy skills, and advance their education and career goals thanks to government funding for the Community Adult Literacy Program (CALP).

The B.C. Government is providing $2.4 million to support 68 community-based adult literacy projects in 2012-2013, benefiting close to 6,400 British Columbians.

Two regional programs are getting a portion of that funding:  Family Literacy Programs in the East Kootenay and Adult Literacy Programs in the East Kootenay – both community partners with the Columbia Basin Alliance for Literacy. Both programs offer services in Fernie, Invermere, Cranbrook, Kimberley, Creston and Golden.

Projects funded under CALP provide instruction and support to adult learners in everything from basic literacy to high school completion.

Projects focus 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.

Most offer one-on-one tutoring by trained volunteers, small group classes and other types of learning tailored to adults, Aboriginal learners, young parents and others in the community in need of support.

“Literacy is essential to an individual’s self-esteem and productivity.  It enhances personal life, family life, and community life.   I am proud to be part of a government that invests in adult literacy programs and contributes to the improved daily life of our citizens and their families,” said Kootenay East MLA Bill Bennett.

CALP projects are offered in a variety of settings – schools, non-profit organizations, native friendship and community centres – and are supported by volunteers.

The projects are delivered through partnerships between community groups and B.C.’s public post-secondary institutions.

In all, government is providing $2.4 million to the Community Adult Literacy Program for 2012-13 to support 68 projects around the province. The program is expected to benefit close to 6,400 British Columbians.

Since 2001, government has invested $20.7 million in CALP, helping more than 75,000 adults improve their literacy skills.

This program supports the BC Jobs Plan commitment to enhancing access to advanced education, skills and apprenticeship training throughout the province.

It also supports the Government’s commitment, under the Families First Agenda, to support vulnerable families and help all British Columbians share in the benefits as our economy continues to grow.

Learn more: http://www.aved.gov.bc.ca/literacy/calp.htm

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