08/10/2024
NEIGHBOURHOOD GEM OF THE WEEK:
LITERACY UNLIMITED
This week’s gem is Literacy Unlimited, a fantastic non-profit based in Pointe-Claire, Montreal, dedicated to improving adult literacy in the West Island and surrounding areas—from Verdun to the Ontario border. Since 1981, they’ve empowered adults through personalized tutoring, family literacy programs, senior initiatives, and community partnerships. In 2023, Literacy Unlimited received the Community Service Award from the West Island of Montreal Chamber of Commerce!
We had the pleasure of sitting down with Julia Asselstine-Gelinas, their Executive Director, whose passion and dedication truly shine's. She shared the rich history of this incredible organization and its deep impact on our community. Did you know 48% of Canadian adults (aged 16-65) have literacy skills below Level 3? That’s nearly half of our population facing literacy challenges.
Looking ahead, Julia and the Literacy Unlimited team have exciting plans: expanding their network through a new ambassador program, hosting special guest speakers, starting an after-school workshop series, and launching a new, gamified literacy program to make learning more fun and engaging!
I highly recommend reaching out to Julia or visiting their website (linked below) to see how you can support this vital cause. Every contribution helps! Did you know a 1% increase in literacy can boost GDP by 3%? Improved literacy also benefits mental wellness, reduces ER visits, and combats elderly isolation. Literacy is the foundation of a more inclusive and productive society.
https://literacyunlimited.ca
Know a small business, charity, or individual making a difference? Tag them in the comments or message me—they could be our next Gem of the Week!
Mathieu Canuel