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header icon BRITISH COLUMBIA

United for Literacy has a long history of collaborating with communities across British Columbia to make literacy learning more accessible to people of all ages. Our programs serve diverse communities, including urban, rural, and remote areas, through learner-centered, trauma-informed, and inclusive approaches that respond to the unique realities of each region.

Each year, United for Literacy in BC supports learners and volunteers through:

  • 2,200+ learners served
  • 2,600+ books distributed
  • 120 volunteers trained
  • High volunteer satisfaction and retention rates

Programs and Services

Programming in BC is both ongoing and seasonal, often aligned with the school year. We offer supports such as English Language Learning, homework clubs, reading tents, family literacy outreach, and digital literacy initiatives. Programs are flexible and designed to meet learners where they are, whether in-person or online, so that each participant can build skills at their own pace.

Specific initiatives include tutoring and literacy programs for children, youth, adults, and families. These services are accessible and responsive to newcomers, Indigenous communities, and individuals seeking to strengthen reading, writing, math, and digital skills.

Access to programs in BC

Partnerships

Partnerships are at the heart of our work. United for Literacy collaborates with a wide network of organizations across the province, including:

  • Surrey
    Atira Women’s Resource Society – Growing Together

  • Vancouver
    Aunt Leah’s Place – 1:1 Tutoring
    Britannia Secondary School – Homework Club & Reading Club
    Burnaby Neighbourhood House – Digital Literacy Support
    Canucks Family Education Centre – Adult Programs Support
    Mount Pleasant Neighbourhood House – Digital Literacy, Family Literacy Outreach, and Homework Club
    REACH Multicultural Family Centre – Women’s Conversation Group
    Urban Native Youth Association – Aries Program
    Pacheedaht First Nation, Squamish Nation, Carrier Sekani Family Services

United for Literacy builds strong partnerships rooted in equity, inclusion, and reconciliation. Interested in working together? Contact us to explore how we can expand access, support learners, and strengthen our communities.

A Community-Based Approach

At its core, United for Literacy in BC is about partnership and accessibility. Programs are tailored to meet the diverse needs of learners, while volunteers benefit from flexible scheduling and opportunities to make a real difference. This community-driven, learner-focused model continues to build stronger, more literate communities across the province.

Become our partner

The team in B.C.

Susan Fox - Regional Director - Western Canada

Susan Fox

Fox brings 20 years of experience in executive social purpose leadership, change management, and community and organizational development at local, provincial, and national levels. She has taught MBA courses in Change Management, Organizational Behavior, and Risk Management at Royal Roads University, served as a thesis advisor, and conducted research on social change. Fox holds an MBA and a Bachelor of Commerce from Royal Roads University, professional certificates in Project Management, Change Management (PROSCI), and Organizational Coaching, and is a Chartered HR Professional (CPHR, SHRM-SCP).

✉️ [email protected] 
📞 (604) 713-5848 

Julia Cooney - Regional Coordinator - British Columbia

logo ulfJulia coordinates programs and partnerships across British Columbia, helping to implement, evaluate, and expand initiatives that make a meaningful impact. She works closely with partners to design literacy and learning programs tailored to community needs and aligned with best practices. With experience in community engagement and program coordination, Julia fosters collaboration and strengthens literacy development across the region. 

✉️ [email protected] 
📞 (604) 283-4481 

Delphine Stalker - Community Literacy Catalyst

Logo United for literacyDelphine has worked as a Community Literacy Catalyst for eight years with the Pacheedaht First Nations.  She provides a range of literacy learning across the community to empower learners on their literacy journey.  

Contact Susan Fox at [email protected] 
📞 (604) 713-5848 

Sarah Leyva - Community Coordinator - British Columbia

Logo United for literacySarah is the BC Community Coordinator at United for Literacy, specializing in volunteer engagement and community partnerships. She collaborates with community organizations to develop and support literacy programs, focusing on volunteer recruitment, training, and retention to enhance program delivery and community involvement.  

✉️ [email protected]  
📞 (778) 807-8186

header icon Support our Programs

Become a volunteer

United for Literacy programs support people as they build literacy skills. These skills provide more opportunities for improved health, better employment prospects, and enhanced social engagement. United for Literacy currently requires volunteers for in-person, remote, and hybrid programs.

Program volunteers participate in planning, coordination, delivery, and evaluation of the program. It’s a great way to learn new skills and share your knowledge with others.

No teaching experience? No problem! Our volunteers come from many different backgrounds and experiences. Fill out the form below to become a volunteer tutor today!

*Workplaces can also get involved through volunteer activities — from book drives to tutoring and mentoring learners.

I want to be a volunteer


Make a gift

There are many ways to make a difference. You can give a one-time or monthly donation, sponsor an event, donate securities, or even contribute Air Miles. Many employers also match employee donations, doubling the impact.

Every contribution helps provide children, youth, and adults with the skills they need for a brighter future.

I want to support

Programs
United for Literacy believes any place can be a learning place. We deliver our programs in schools, community centres, shelters—anywhere we're invited. Our literacy and numeracy programs are all free.
View all our programs
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