It’s National Volunteer Week and we are delighted to once again celebrate our incredible volunteer team! Volunteers have always been integral to our work – from the early days of the adult tutoring program, to the introduction of family literacy programs, and all of the fundraising and organizational support that’s happened along the way. Our volunteers enhance every program and community event that learners enjoy. Whether taking on new challenges or settling in for a fun program, our volunteers show dedication and an eagerness to continue learning and growing alongside us and our learners. What more can we say than THANK YOU!!
We are pleased to present our annual Volunteer Awards to 5 very deserving volunteers. The Best In Class awards celebrate volunteers who demonstrate excellence in their roles, and the Ripple Effect Award is given to volunteer(s) who truly champion literacy through their volunteer work with CFL and beyond. It is an honour to celebrate these volunteers and share their stories with our community.
Ripple Effect Award: Wendy
As a retired Kindergarten, elementary school educator and reading consultant I have always known the incredible power of literacy learning in the classroom. My passion for literacy has endured well beyond my working life and into my retirement years. As a new CFL Board Member, I have learned how that power can be fostered from birth through family literacy.
CFL programs (whether taught online or in person) for babies, preschoolers, school-aged children and seniors show how high-quality literature, engaging and well- paced activities and caring relationships can create an environment where literacy learners thrive and excel. The age appropriate and well designed lessons are thoughtfully presented by qualified and caring instructors.
I am proud to be associated with the CFL and look forward to supporting their important work in the future. It is an honour to receive the Ripple Effect Award from the Centre for Family Literacy.
Best In Class Award – Family Programs: Ellison
It’s been a privilege to volunteer at the Centre for Family Literacy. I was first introduced to CFL by my professor going through the LIT diploma. It started as a way to gain experience while job-searching but has quickly become the highlight of my every week. I love connecting with the families, kids, seniors, other volunteers, and the literary specialists. I’ve learned so much in the ways of storytelling, communicating, and gaining confidence to lead a song and/or story. Everyone is so supportive and believes in the same mission at CFL to bring accessible literary skills to all. I tell everyone I know about the programs and carry the skills home to show my family too. Thank you to the CFL family! I look forward to continuing being part of future sessions!
Best In Class Award – Family Programs: Ouswa
Having the opportunity to volunteer with the Centre for Family Literacy has been incredibly rewarding. I initially joined because of my love for reading and writing, hoping to find a fun and meaningful way to share that passion with others. From working with the amazing facilitators to talking and learning alongside the learners, it reignited my love for literacy but also changed how I view it.
I have really seen how literacy skills can provide families the tools to succeed in all aspects of their lives. Reading and writing have always been cornerstones of my life, but only through family programming have I seen how they extend into so many other areas. What began as a way to share my passion for literacy quickly became an experience that reshaped how I understand education and reinforced the kind of impact I hope to continue contributing to.
Best In Class Award – Adult Programs: Dave
Dave joined our volunteer team as a tutor in 2020 when our programs experienced a massive shift to an online-only format. Throughout his time tutoring, Dave has been encouraging, flexible, and attentive to the needs of his learners. His long term learner said “Mr. David has been the best tutor ever all the way in driving me to get my goal and to be a better person and to speak English with confidence”.
More recently, Dave has branched out into co-facilitating our group programs as well. Here, our staff have seen his skills in action! He’s great at identifying where learners may struggle, at giving memorable examples and context for new vocabulary, and at turning questions into conversations. For all of the amazing support Dave has given to our learners – and staff – over the years, we are thrilled to present him this Volunteer Award. Thank you for being a part of our team, Dave!
Best In Class Award – Board and Committees: Kevin
Serving on the Finance & Audit Committee has been an incredibly meaningful experience, and I’m truly honoured to receive this recognition. Through this work, I’ve gained an even deeper appreciation for the critical role strong financial stewardship and governance play in supporting an organization’s mission and long-term sustainability. While much of committee work happens behind the scenes, its impact is far-reaching in that it helps ensure resources are managed responsibly, risks are thoughtfully overseen, and the organization is positioned to serve its stakeholders effectively. I am grateful for the opportunity to contribute to such a tremendous team and organization.
