Released on September 8, 2015
Today, Canada’s Premiers announced READ Saskatoon as the Saskatchewan recipient of the 11th annual Council of the Federation Literacy Award. The award is presented annually in recognition of outstanding achievement, innovative practice and excellence in literacy in each of Canada’s provinces and territories.
This year, Saskatchewan chose to recognize community literacy leadership by a non-profit organization through the award. READ Saskatoon was selected by an independent committee for their significant contributions to the advancement of literacy in our province.
“It’s been said that reading is a basic tool in the living of a good life but imagine what life is like for those who have difficulty reading, or for those who can’t read at all,” Premier Brad Wall said. “For more than 35 years, READ Saskatoon volunteers have given thousands of people hope and a fuller sense of the possibilities in life. They have made our community stronger. We are grateful for their commitment and dedication to help others. It is my honour and privilege to recognize READ Saskatoon with this important award.”
READ Saskatoon is a provincially and nationally recognized community-based organization that has been offering free literacy programs and services to thousands of adults and families in the Saskatoon area for more than 35 years. First established as a volunteer agency, READ Saskatoon addresses and supports the advancement of literacy and learning in the community by providing a range of literacy services for adults and families through the work of staff, trained volunteers and community partners.
Established in 2004, the Council of the Federation Literacy Award recognizes the excellence of educators, volunteers, learners, community organizations and businesses across the field of literacy, including family, Aboriginal, health, workplace and community literacy.
READ Saskatoon will be formally presented with the Literacy Award at a ceremony this fall.
For more information on the award or how to apply, please visit www.saskatchewan.ca/government/heritage-honours-and-awards/council-of-the-federation-of-literarcy-award.
-30-
For more information, contact:
Amanda Purcell
Education
Regina
Phone: 306-787-1069
Email: amanda.purcell@gov.sk.ca
Cell: 306-533-7506