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ONTARIO
At United for Literacy, we are locally driven and nationally connected.
We have a long history of collaborating with communities across Ontario 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.
Chanelle Mendes - Program Support Staff, Toronto
For any questions regarding volunteer involvement in Toronto and Scarborough programs
✉️[email protected]
📞 289-554-9999 ext. 3403
Chanelle first got involved with United for Literacy as a volunteer back in 2019 and offers a unique perspective at the intersection of community, care, and education as a social determinant of wellbeing.
Hanif Alirezaei - Community Coordinator, Toronto
For information on children and youth programming in Toronto
✉️ [email protected]
📞 1-800-555-6523 ext. 3312
With over five years of experience at United for Literacy, Hanif has helped shape programs that welcome and empower young people from diverse social, cultural, and economic backgrounds. He is deeply committed to expanding educational access and fostering innovative ways to support literacy development. Hanif works collaboratively with staff, volunteers, community organizations, and educators to design and implement programs that meet the evolving needs of learners.
Sandra Huehn - Community Coordinator, Toronto
For information in Toronto
✉️ s[email protected]
📞 1-800-555-6523 ext.3319
Sandra has been a community organizer and trainer at United for Literacy for over 30 years. A trained high school teacher, she has developed several resources for tutors, parents and homework club organizers. Sandra believes that literacy has the power to transform lives and communities.
Leonardo Ologundudu - Program Support Staff, Hamilton
For information on volunteering, tutoring, or programming in the Hamilton region.
✉️ [email protected]
Leonardo is the Program Support Staff for United for Literacy in Hamilton, responsible for organizing our volunteering programming in that region. Leo has been with the organization for five years, both as a volunteer tutor and Program Support Staff. With the assistance of his team at McMaster University, Leo collaborates with local schools and organizations to provide students (Grades 1-12) with literacy and numeracy supports.
Hillary Andru - Program Support Staff, Kingston
For details on Read for Fun program
✉️ [email protected]
Hillary manages United for Literacy’s Read for Fun program in Kingston and is the director of Queen’s Students for Literacy. She is a third-year health sciences student at Queen’s University. In her spare time, Hillary can be found volunteering (most notably in Kingston's prisons), journaling, or reading!
Joanne Brock - Community Coordinator, Sudbury
For information in Sudbury, Ontario
✉️ [email protected]
With a background in developmental services and youth recreation, Joanne is passionate about helping people of all ages learn, connect, and discover their gifts and passions. In her role, Joanne plans and leads engaging in-person and virtual learning programs, working closely with volunteers. Outside of work, she loves volunteering with children and youth, being active, and spending time outdoors with her husband and their three daughters.
Alex Hauschildt - Community Coordinator, Kitchener-Waterloo and Guelph
For information in Kitchener-Waterloo & Guelph
✉️ [email protected]
📞 647-340-7142
Alex Hauschildt is an education-focused operations and communications professional with over 20 years of experience in teaching, nonprofit leadership, and community engagement. He has dedicated his career to creating and managing inclusive, volunteer-driven programs that expand access to learning and promote educational equity. Deeply committed to literacy and lifelong learning, he brings a strategic and compassionate approach to building inclusive, education-centered communities.
Sarah Brydges - Community Coordinator, Ottawa
✉️ [email protected]
📞 613-316-4673
With over 14 years of experience with United for Literacy, I provide homework and reading programs for diverse children aged from 6-12 in libraries, after-school programs, transitional housing, and Boys & Girls Clubs.
Cindy Bissonnette - Literacy Facilitator, Ottawa
For information in Ottawa
✉️ [email protected]
Cindy has been with United for Literacy for one and a half years. She brings her extensive experience in the education sector to her role as a community capacity builder. Cindy is skilled at fostering strong relationships and developing literacy workshops for community partners. She particularly enjoys expanding literacy programming into some of Ottawa's more underserved areas. In her spare time, Cindy enjoys reading, the outdoors, and exploring various creative arts.
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.
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.
