If you know someone who is making a difference in people's lives through the field of literacy, nominate them for a Council of the Federation (COF) Literacy Award.

"Literacy skills make people and families stronger, and these awards honour literacy champions who enrich people's lives every day," said Premier Christy Clark. "Literacy is a gift that builds bright and hopeful futures for families, and I encourage British Columbians to nominate individuals or organizations that make a difference in their communities."

The award was created by Canada's premiers to acknowledge outstanding achievement in all areas of literacy, including early childhood, family, Aboriginal, health, workplace and community. The nomination deadline for the B.C. award is May 16, 2011.

"Literacy skills are the key to personal and professional success," said Education Minister George Abbott. "These awards celebrate the passion, commitment and innovation of those who dedicate their lives to improve literacy."

Pete Grinberg won British Columbia's award last year for developing and operating Kamloops' Street School, a community literacy program for adults who have learning difficulties, and a vital link between the corrections system and the community.

"Literacy forms the foundation for strong and vibrant communities in our province," said Minister of Children and Family Development Mary McNeil. "Developing reading and writing skills early in life helps children and youth become lifelong learners. The Council Award acknowledges those who help others achieve their dreams through literacy."

The seventh annual award promotes literacy at the provincial and territorial level and helps raise awareness across Canada. Each province and territory chooses a group, individual or project that has made a significant contribution to literacy. This year's award recipients will be announced right here in B.C. at a COF meeting on July 20.

To be eligible, nominees must have lived in B.C. for at least two years and consent to their nomination. Eligible nominees may be current or former students, literacy volunteers, practitioners, teachers, administrators, researchers, businesses or organizations. Award recipients receive a medallion and a certificate signed by the premier of their province or territory.

The COF was established in 2003 to acknowledge the leadership role provinces and territories play in Canada's federation. The COF, which comprises all 13 provincial and territorial premiers, created the literacy award in 2004.

Learn More:

For more information about the COF Literacy Award and to access the nomination form, visit: www.readnowbc.ca/communities/cof_literacy_award.php

For information on the Council of the Federation, visit: www.councilofthefederation.ca

Contacts:

Chris Olsen
Press Secretary
Office of the Premier
604 220-1640

Public Affairs Bureau
Ministry of Education
250 356-5963