7. Literacy Now – Frequently Asked Questions

Literacy Now is a community-based planning process designed to address local literacy needs.

The initial focus of Literacy Now is to develop and implement a community development strategy designed to support literacy initiatives, alliances, programs and collaborative planning within communities.

For information on the relationship between Literacy BC and Literacy Now, see the “FAQ” --Frequently Asked Questions – document.

8. News from around the province….

At Project Literacy Victoria (PLV) long time Executive Director Susan Kurushima retired in February, after 18 years with the organization.

PLV staff, board members, friends, volunteers and members of the community honoured Susan at a special event “to celebrate the working life and times of Susan Kurushima.”

In the winter issue of Forwards - Project Literacy Victoria’s newsletter - Susan wrote, “It has been a privilege to work at PLV for the past 18 years. So many people have touched my life in all kinds of different ways, and have allowed me the privilege of being trusted to walk a part of their journey with them. I carry many memories with me into retirement.”

The new Executive Director is Ruth Derrick. Ruth has a strong background in literacy, politics and communications, and has held senior responsibilities at the federal and provincial level. She was Senior Adviser for Literacy at Human Resources and Skills Development Canada (HRSDC) for four years. She has worked as a literacy tutor at Project Literacy Victoria since November 2004.

Literacy BC extends our heartfelt thank you and “happy retirement” to Susan, and a warm welcome to Ruth.

Also in Victoria, at the Victoria READ Society, Executive Director Julie Holder is leaving the position after nearly four years.

The Victoria READ Society is a non-profit organization, dedicated to helping students of all ages learn basic academic skills through small classes, individualized help and a supportive, caring environment.

READ has posted the ED position on their website under “Employment Opportunities” as well as a more detailed job description.

As of March 21st, until a new person is recruited, Cindy Vaartnou is Acting Executive Director at READ.
Contact: Email: info@readsociety.bc.ca