BIOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION
2019 Council of the Federation Literacy Award Recipients
Project Adult Literacy Society (P.A.L.S.) – Alberta
Since 1979, the Project Adult Literacy Society (P.A.L.S.) has brought together adult learners and volunteer tutors to form a foundational learning community in Edmonton. P.A.L.S. supports adult learners in the foundational learning areas of reading and writing, math, English language, and digital skills learning opportunities. The impact of P.A.L.S.’ work is far-reaching as they empower students to improve daily living, build social support networks, and reach further learning and employment goals. As a strong advocate for adult literacy, P.A.L.S. actively engages with community partners, local businesses, post-secondary institutions, and policy makers to raise awareness for the importance and potential of literacy to change lives.
Morie Ford – British Columbia
For over 30 years, Morie Ford has championed community-based literacy programs for adults and youth. She has worked as a literacy tutor, mentor, facilitator, educator and board chair. Morie helped launch the ONE TO ONE literacy program, which recruits, trains and supports volunteer tutors to work with school-aged children. She also helped incorporate the Writers’ Exchange Society, a creative literacy program that connects Vancouver inner-city kids with volunteer tutors. As the current Family Outreach Coordinator at Mount Pleasant Neighborhood House, Morie works with immigrant and refugee families to provide one to one, home-based, intergenerational literacy support. According to her nominators, Morie is a compassionate change-maker who has positively impacted many people’s lives through her hard work, true dedication, and big heart.
Elvis McKay – Manitoba
Elvis McKay is “an inspiration to all who struggle.” From a life of truancy, addiction, crime, and incarceration, Elvis has become a positive role model for his children and community. Since he began attending literacy classes at Open Doors Adult Literacy Program and Luxton Adult Learning Program in 2018, Elvis has significantly improved his literacy and numeracy skills. His teachers describe him as a self-motivated, hardworking and respectful student with a strong work ethic. With aspirations for a rewarding career, his goals are to achieve his high school diploma and advance his employability skills. First as a volunteer with the North End Bear Clan Patrol and now as a staff member, Elvis’ compassionate approach is making a difference in his community.