The Write Place offers scribe services such as resume preparation and help with applications, letters, problem-solving and referrals. Staff also support the volunteer tutoring program which continues to be operated in partnership with Malaspina University College. Training sessions of 36 hours are held spring and fall.

We were closed last summer, after which Project Literacy Parksville Qualicum was awarded two contracts for the current fiscal year. A $25,000 cost-shared grant runs to August 31, 1997 and a $13,500 cost-shared grant from Strategic Initiatives - ACR, a committee made up of HRDC and MoEST, ended March 31, 1997.

We also have a bingo licence and hold regular fund raising and public awareness events. Our fourth annual Walk for Literacy will be held Sunday, June 8. Our part-time staff member is currently working on heightening our profile within the community and expanding our volunteer base.

We will soon participate in the B.C. literacy electronic network. Students from The Write Place will act as moderators for on-line discussions through a provincial learner chat-line.

We have operated a downtown centre for six years. In partnership with Malaspina University College we fund a tutor coordinator. The college pays for a half-time position from September to March and we bring the position up to full-time and cover the balance of the year. This year our revenues were down and we had to considerably reduce the tutor coordinator hours from April through August. We have about 65 tutor/ learner pairs working per month. Normally, two groups of 25 are trained per year.

We also operate a used bookstore. All books are donated and the store is staffed by volunteers. In addition to revenue, the store provides opportunities for individuals to gain work experience and the community to access information about literacy.

We continue to coordinate the BEARS and BEAMS -- Being Enthusiastic About Reading (or Math) -- programs. Volunteers help children -- identified by teachers as needing more attention -- with reading and math. Our role is to keep track of the volunteers, generate publicity, and run workshops.

We have also arranged with the Nanaimo transit authority to display literacy signs on local buses.