Premier Christy Clark was pleased to announce that the Literacy Alliance of the Shuswap Society (LASS) is the recipient of the 2012 Council of Federation Literacy Award for its success fostering a high level of community collaboration in support of literacy.

"Virtually every citizen in the North Okanagan-Shuswap has benefited from the variety and quality of the programs that LASS has developed and nurtured," said Premier Clark. "An enhanced regard and enthusiasm for literacy has been woven into the fabric of these communities under their guidance."

Some of the most successful literacy programs provided by LASS include:

• Unplug and Play Family Literacy Week, with close to 1,300 participants.

• Coyote Café After School Reading Program, supported by an Aboriginal support worker and a community volunteer.

• One-to-One Children's Literacy Program, which involved over 200 community volunteers across 13 schools.

• Save/Spend/Share Financial Literacy Program, where students learn about the importance of setting financial goals.

The Council of the Federation includes all 13 provincial and territorial premiers. Each province and territory annually recognizes an educator, volunteer, learner, community organization or business for their outstanding achievement, innovative practice and excellence in literacy. Award recipients receive a medallion and a certificate signed by the premier of their province or territory.

"Literacy is a gateway every individual must pass through if they are to become fully engaged citizens," said Minister of Education George Abbott. "Groups like LASS help create the opportunity for everyone, no matter what their background, to achieve that goal."

Since 2001, the government of B.C. has invested approximately $1.5 billion in literacy and literacy-related initiatives such as StrongStart BC early learning programs, just over $22 million to operate the kindergarten-readiness program Ready, Set, Learn, and $2.7 million for the LEAP BC resources that encourage literacy, physical activity and healthy eating in preschool-aged children.

Learn More:

To see all the Literary Award winners: www.councilofthefederation.ca

To learn about BC's Education Plan, visit: www.bcedplan.ca

Contact:

Government Communications and Public Engagement
Ministry of Education
250 356-5963