Council of the Federation Announces Literacy Award Winners for 2010

BIOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION

2010 Council of the Federation Literacy Award Recipients

Margaret Chegwin – Alberta
Margaret Chegwin has been volunteering in the field of literacy in various capacities and communities since 1994. She began as a volunteer tutor in Grande Prairie and when she moved to Wetaskiwin, her passion led her to the Wetaskiwin Community Literacy Program. She has volunteered in many capacities, including as a board member, a tutor, a mentor, fundraiser, and literacy event organizer. Ms. Chegwin is also a reporter with a local paper and frequently highlights literacy events and issues, engaging the broader community in related challenges and opportunities. Her nominators describe Ms. Chegwin as a passionate, giving, and inspiring individual who strives to learn all that she can about literacy and regards literacy as “one of the greatest gifts” that she can help give.

Pete Grinberg – British Columbia
Pete Grinberg began his career as a high school teacher in Ontario 25 years ago. He later taught at the Kamloops Christian School, where he developed an alternate, self- paced program for struggling students. Since 2003, he has taught at the Kamloops Regional Correctional Centre (KRCC). During his time at the KRCC, he has developed and continues to coordinate Street School, a community literacy program for adults with learning difficulties, and a vital link between the corrections system and the community. Pete actively promotes the Street School and solicits volunteers to support this unique program which helps inmates transition from custody into the community. The program has proven to be successful as enrolment has risen from five students to 170, and this year 19 students will graduate with a grade 12 diploma. As an Adult Continuing Education teacher with School District 73 – Kamloops-Thompson, Pete continues to work tirelessly, helping learners reach their individual literacy goals.

Angela Keno – Manitoba
Angela Keno always wanted to improve her literacy skills, but as a single parent of three sons she was unable to attend programs due to family commitments. In 2009 when the Westgrove Learning Centre opened in her housing complex, she enrolled and eagerly worked on strategies to improve her reading. She achieved a tremendous amount in a short time and overcame many barriers to learning. Now she helps her sons with their homework, assists other students to learn math, and volunteers with Winnipeg Harvest, a non-profit, community-based organization whose ultimate goal is to collect and share surplus food with the hungry. With her increased confidence and new literacy skills, Angela obtained part-time employment as a Community Helper at the family resource centre. She is a leader and role model who offers encouragement and support for those around her, both in the classroom and in the community.