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
Community-Driven Partnerships
Partnerships That Strengthen Communities
Partnerships are at the heart of our work. United for Literacy collaborates with a wide network of organizations across the province, including:
- Atira Women’s Resource Society – Growing Together (Surrey)
- Aunt Leah’s Place – 1:1 Tutoring (Vancouver & New Westminster, in-person & online)
- Britannia Secondary School – Homework Club & Reading Club (Vancouver)
- Burnaby Neighbourhood House – Digital Literacy Support (Vancouver)
- Canucks Family Education Centre – Adult Programs Support (Vancouver & Burnaby)
- Mount Pleasant Neighbourhood House – Digital Literacy, Family Literacy Outreach, and Homework Club (Vancouver & online)
- REACH Multicultural Family Centre – Women’s Conversation Group (Vancouver & online)
- Urban Native Youth Association – Aries Program (Vancouver)
- Pacheedaht First Nation, Squamish Nation, Carrier Sekani Family Services
These collaborations allow programs to be deeply embedded in communities, offering locally relevant and culturally responsive literacy support.
Become our partner
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 volunteer
United for Literacy programs support people as they build literacy skills. These skills give more opportunities for better health, employment opportunities, and social engagement. United for Literacy currently requires volunteers for in-person, remote, and hybrid programs.
Program volunteers take part in program planning, coordination, delivery, and evaluation. 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!
I want to be a volunteer
Contact our team in BC
Profile picture, quick bio and why people should contact or what they should contact you about
Richard Harvey, Vice President, Programs and Impact
Email: [email protected]
