Nearly half of adults living on Montreal’s West Island struggle with low literacy skills, as reported by Literacy Unlimited. This means that a significant portion of the adult population in the area operates below the literacy level equivalent to high school graduation, hindering their full participation in a communication-driven society.
During a recent event marking their 45th anniversary, Julia Asselstine, the executive director of Literacy Unlimited, highlighted the organization’s outreach to 8,500 individuals in the past year. Contrary to a common misconception, Julia Chiarella-Genoni, the marketing and communications associate, emphasized that the West Island community requires literacy support, citing national statistics showing that 19% of Canadians have level 1 literacy skills and 49% are at level 3.
Leona Kemp, the founder of Literacy Unlimited, reflected on the organization’s origins in the ’80s when adult education, including literacy, gained prominence in Quebec. She underscored the importance of literacy in empowering individuals to make informed decisions and navigate life’s challenges effectively.
Emphasizing the profound impact of literacy on various aspects of life, Chiarella-Genoni highlighted the correlation between literacy and issues such as homelessness, food insecurity, and financial struggles, noting that literacy serves as the foundation for personal growth and success.
Reflecting on the organization’s evolution over four decades, Kemp praised the expansion of programs focusing on family literacy, early childhood reading initiatives, support for seniors in computer literacy, and the promotion of critical thinking skills essential for decision-making.
Josie Stinziani, a volunteer tutor with Literacy Unlimited, shared her inspiring experience working with an adult learner who never had the opportunity for formal education. She emphasized the transformative power of education and the dedication of learners in their journey towards literacy.
Chiarella-Genoni highlighted Literacy Unlimited’s personalized approach to tutoring, catering to individual learner goals such as obtaining a driver’s license or citizenship. The organization’s comprehensive programs encompass family and senior initiatives, along with one-on-one tutoring, aiming to address the diverse literacy needs of West Islanders.
