kingston literacy skills · fundraising – to support our family literacy program may 10, 2012 the...

literacy

family

Kingston Literacy & Skills Build Your Skills, Shape Your Future

ANNUAL REPORT 2012 − 2013

job

skill

s

3 ANNUAL REPORT 2012 – 2013

Year in Review: Message from the President and the Executive Director ......................................... p. 4 Mission Statement, Vision Statement & Strategic Priorities 2013-2016 ........................................... p. 6 A Learner’s Experience ....................................................................................................................... p. 7 The Cause ........................................................................................................................................... p. 8 The Zalman Yanovsky Award .............................................................................................................. p. 11 Highlights from the Year ..................................................................................................................... p. 12 Programs and Services ................................................................................................................. p. 12 Outcomes ..................................................................................................................................... p. 16 Organizational Chart ........................................................................................................................... p. 18 Governance ....................................................................................................................................... p. 19 Board Committees .............................................................................................................................. p. 20 Volunteering at KL&S ......................................................................................................................... p. 23 Staff .................................................................................................................................................... p. 25 Thank You ........................................................................................................................................... p. 26 Partners ........................................................................................................................................ p. 26 Program Funders .......................................................................................................................... p. 27 Donors .......................................................................................................................................... p. 28 Financial Information ......................................................................................................................... p. 29 Sources and Distribution of Funding ............................................................................................ p. 29 Fundraising, .................................................................................................................................. p. 31 Contact Information ........................................................................................................................... p. 33

Table of Contents

4

Year in Review: MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT The past twelve months have been interesting for everyone associated with KL&S. Balancing a budget in the face of decreased funding, yet facing increased client needs, made the year start with quite a challenge. Fiscal Responsibility With the full support of the Board of Directors, the budget was accepted, followed by meetings and letters for all staff whose hours were reduced due to the changes in our fiscal position. The west end Literacy and Basic Skills site was closed in June, which resulted in one part-time employee being laid off. It is a tribute to all KL&S employees that the required downsizing was met without complaints. Staff truly demonstrated the reason they work here, which is because they believe in what they do and they care. Fundraising – to support our Family Literacy Program May 10, 2012 The 18th Annual Grate Groan-Up Spelling Bee raised a promising

$15,000. This is our signature event and is run primarily by volunteers. Dec. 8, 2012 A Christmas Carol Reading was a new initiative for KL&S, orchestrated

by two Queen’s literary interns, Danielle O’Connor and Jeremy Gardiner. They paved the way for KL&S to continue and grow this event into a significant fundraiser. Thanks to Danielle and Jeremy for their efforts.

Feb. 26, 27, 28, 2013 Chez Piggy hosted three wonderful evenings to support KL&S by creating three menus at three different price points that were all entirely donated. The success of this unique opportunity was directly related to the vision of Zoe Yanovsky herself.

The Zalman Yanovsky Award for Literacy This award was presented posthumously to long-time volunteer and supply instructor, Mr. Bob Johnson. Bob was the ultimate volunteer and could always be counted on to do whatever needed doing. He was passionate about KL&S, literacy and language training, and gave so much of himself. He is greatly missed by staff, students and volunteers alike. The award was accepted by his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Robert Johnson. Donation KL&S was honoured to receive a donation from Mr. and Mrs. Robert Johnson as a legacy to their son, Bob. The gift of $50,000 has yet to be designated, but the board is reviewing options to establish an award that will provide a lasting memory of Bob’s contributions to literacy.

community


AND THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Social Enterprise To consider options for sustainable funding, KL&S investigated a Social Enterprise model. An ad hoc committee was created and a partnership developed with the Queen’s University School of Business, Social Impact Club volunteers (please see page 24 for an overview). Following a brainstorming session and follow-up meetings, the Board agreed that a business venture was not plausible at this time. A significant amount of information through the partnerships that were developed was gained, and we thank all the members of the Social Impact Club for their time and expertise. Staff and Board Retreat KL&S held an offsite retreat in September 2012. Staff spent the day in team building activities, focused planning groups and a question-and-answer period with the Executive Director. Board members enjoyed staff presentations explaining the three major program areas. Feedback from the day was positive, and the plan is to continue to hold an annual retreat. Strategic Planning Since the existing 2010 – 13 Strategic Plan was coming to an end, the Board began looking ahead to the fall of 2013 when a new plan was to be in place. Prior to a strategy session, it was necessary to ensure all board members were in agreement about the type of board KL&S needed and that, in fact, they met that need. With many new board members, it was an excellent opportunity to conduct an internal review. Using the United Way’s definition of Board Models and distinct features, the Board clearly agreed that they were a Policy Board. Armed with this information, they were ready to include KL&S staff in the next stage. The first task was to have the Board attend the various sites to better identify staff positions and roles. This orientation was followed by two strategic planning sessions with staff and board members led by Arlene Cronin. Subsequently, the Board met again to review the Mission, create a Vision and provide the strategic direction for the next three years, which are included in this Annual Report. Staff will work with the strategic priorities to create their work plan, determine goals and align their work with the strategies of the organization. The board is pleased with the progress to date, and look forward to the future direction of the organization. Thank you to all the funders, partners, supporters, staff and volunteers who have contributed to the success of KL&S during the past 12 months, and throughout our entire 36 years of operation!

_______________________________ ______________________________ Board President Executive Director

6

Mission Statement Kingston Literacy & Skills strengthens our community through the development of literacy, language and skills for adults and families.

Vision Statement To create a world where everyone has the literacy and skills to achieve their full potential through access to education and employment, increased independence and community participation.

Strategic Priorities 2013 − 2016 1. Improve organizational sustainability with a focus on diversification of funding and

operational improvements.

2. Develop innovative programming and services to respond to the changing needs of our clients and community.

3. Promote a healthy, cohesive work environment that includes staff, volunteers and board members.

4. Focus on defining and developing strategic partnerships and community development.


A Learner’s Experience

From KL&S to College Hi. My name is Jacquelyn Woolgar and I am going to tell you a story. About ten months ago, I had the opportunity to be enrolled at Kingston Literacy & Skills. I had been out of school for quite some time and thought this was a great way to update my skills and hopefully get into college one day. I had been dealing with some issues for the past five years and never once did it cross my mind to go back to school. The opportunity fell into my lap. Please excuse that cliché. I am a single parent, a stay-at-home mom without up-to-date skills to get a decent paying job. I am grateful to Kingston Literacy & Skills for they have opened a lot of doors for me. The staff is phenomenal. In all honesty, I didn’t realize people like them existed. They really care for the students and really encourage them to reach their potential. In December, I was ready to be transferred over to College Prep. I was terrified about going the next step. I did baby steps. I knew that I was going to go at some point so before that day came, I gathered some supports in place and went over to browse around the college. I am really glad I did. I liked college so much that I applied for the Social Service Worker program and was accepted for this coming fall. I am so excited to be a college student and I have great motivation. The next five years will bring a college diploma, a job that I love and a decent wage. These are short-term goals I know, but they are also the stepping stones to pave the way for a home of my own and a vehicle. Once I reach all of these goals, that is how I will define success.

“Without KL&S, I sure wouldn’t be where I am now and I really appreciate everything.”

− Jacquelyn Woolgar

Jacquelyn (right) with KL&S colleague (photo courtesy of Rob Mooy, Kingston This Week)

8 respect

*ALL 2003, Key Research Findings and HRSD Implications, presented by Satya Brink, Ph.D., Director, National Learning Policy Research, Learning Policy Directorate, Human Resources and Skills Development Canada, May 11, 2005. http://resources.ccl-cca.ca/item/6022

Literacy Facts Literacy is about more than how well a person reads or writes—most of us can read or write to some degree. Literacy is about how a person can develop those skills and use them to achieve goals in life: at home, at work and in the community. • A person’s literacy level affects them directly. • It impacts on their chance for and type of employment, occupation and income level. • It impacts on their health and well-being. • Higher literacy skills can lead to better jobs, higher income, a better occupation, increased

self-esteem and a better quality of life.

Why We Are Needed • Low literacy is an outcome, not a choice. • Low literacy levels can lead to unemployment and poverty. • Low literacy can be passed from generation to generation. • According to findings in the 2003 International Adult Literacy and Skills Survey*:

3,400,000 people (ages 15-65) in Ontario had low literacy skills 4,162,000 people had low numeracy skills

• Our services are offered free of charge. • No other organization in Kingston offers a free adult tutoring program. • We offer the only ESL Literacy program with childcare in Kingston. • We are the only community-based Family Literacy

program in Kingston to focus on both the literacy level of the parent as well as the early literacy development of their preschool children at the same time.

The Cause

Our one-to-one program matches adult students with volunteer tutors, providing a comfortable, supportive environment.


What We Do KL&S provides adults and families in Kingston and surrounding communities with professional, learner-centred literacy upgrading in the following ways: Programs 1. Adult Education (Literacy and Basic Skills − LBS), operating in Kingston and Napanee

We offer a range of classes to help the learner move onto their next step, whether that is employment, further education, apprenticeship or increased independence. Instruction is available in small groups or one-to-one with a tutor.

Our classes include:

• Upgrading in reading, writing, math and computers • Grade 12 Equivalency courses through a special partnership with St. Lawrence College • Career preparation classes created with employers to develop the Essential Skills

required to work in certain industries 2. Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC), operating in Kingston

Landed immigrants and convention refugees take part in beginner and intermediate programs (LINC levels 1-4) as well as ESL literacy classes. Instruction occurs in small groups and occasionally one-to-one with a tutor.

Learners focus on:

• English language instruction with upgrading in reading, writing and computers

• Learning about Canadian life and culture • Learning about social norms and business

practices in Canada Our Around the World childcare program has

an excellent reputation for its outstanding educational and care-giving components.

The Cause

LINC students make new friends, which helps them feel more

comfortable in the community.

10

What We Do (cont’d) 3. Family and Early Literacy (FEL), operating within

Kingston, Frontenac, Lennox & Addington, Central and North Hastings

We offer a wide variety of Family and Early Literacy programming and services which are provided to families, caregivers and childcare providers. Our Family Literacy programs provide information and learning opportunities to benefit parents and their children’s early literacy development. Our Early Literacy Specialists (ELS) work with community groups and organizations to strengthen, support and promote literacy and language development for children from birth to age six and their families. Our Family and Early Literacy programming is designed to: • Teach parents how they can help foster their young children’s language development

and early learning • Support parents as they upgrade their own Essential Skills.

Services Information Services KL&S continues to develop and contribute to information sharing and literacy awareness within the Kingston community by: • Increasing public awareness on literacy and language issues • Providing information and referral services within the adult education community, early

literacy and child development community and within the broader community • Facilitating the sharing of information with other Employment Ontario (EO) partners, as

KL&S is a part of this network which encompasses employment service agencies and adult literacy programs funded by the Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities

The Cause

growth


The Zalman Yanovsky Award

The Zalman Yanovsky Award for Outstanding Service to Literacy

The Zalman Yanovsky Award for Outstanding Service to Literacy was presented posthumously to Bob Johnson, a long-time volunteer of Kingston Literacy & Skills. Bob volunteered at Kingston Literacy & Skills in the one-to-one

and group Literacy & Basic Skills programs as a tutor, and as a conversation group participant for English as a Second Language (ESL) clients with LINC (Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada). He was also a volunteer in ESL conversation groups at

Queen’s University. Bob was on the Teachers of English as a Second Language Kingston Board for three years. He was also on the committee for the Grate Groan-Up Spelling Bee, a major fundraiser for Kingston Literacy & Skills held in May each year. Bob was the ultimate volunteer. He could always be counted on to step up and do whatever needed doing. He was passionate about KL&S, literacy and language training, and gave so much of himself all over the community. The award was presented posthumously by Zoe Yanovsky (Zalman’s daughter) to Bob’s parents, Robert and Bev Johnson, at a fundraising event for Kingston Literacy & Skills held at Chez Piggy on Tuesday, February 27, 2013. The Zalman Yanovsky Award for Outstanding Volunteer Service to Literacy is given in memory of Zalman Yanovsky (1944-2002), musician, restaurateur and raconteur. Few knew him for the contributions he made to the advancement of literacy in Kingston. The award is open to any resident who embodies the spirit of volunteerism in the literacy field in the Kingston area.

12

Adult Education (Literacy and Basic Skills − LBS) • In April 2012 our LBS program transitioned to using the new Ontario Adult Literacy

Curriculum Framework (OALCF) as part of our funding agreement with the Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities (MTCU). This program overhaul involved several major changes including: The introduction of five goal-paths (Apprenticeship, Employment, Independence, Post-

Secondary and Secondary) as opposed to three An emphasis on task-based instruction, as opposed to skill-based The development of a new measurement framework, with three literacy levels, as

opposed to the previous five • The 10-week program, Getting Employment And Retention Skills (GEARS), was offered in

partnership with Ontario Works (OW) and Community Employment Resource Centre North (CERC North). It was designed to provide Ontario Works clients with intensive and targeted programming to help them prepare for employment. This program proved so effective that OW will be running the program with Northern Connections in Sharbot Lake this fall.

• This year saw the LBS program begin to target employers directly, to let them know about

our programs, and remind them of the importance of literacy in the workplace. The LBS Manager met with two large employers in Kingston and provided information packages to a number of other businesses. The LBS program also participated in an Employers and Literacy initiative, spearheaded by the 1000 Islands Workforce Development Board and Literacy Link Eastern Ontario that culminated in a breakfast meeting that included employment service agencies, LBS programs and several of Kingston’s large employers. In 2013-14, an electronic information package will be developed by LBS staff to provide key information about literacy issues for employers and how KL&S can help them address their needs.

Highlights from the Year: PROGRAMS AND SERVICES

opportunity

“You guys did an amazing job and created a great base for me to get where I am and where I hope to be going. I was accepted with conditions to General Arts pre-behavior psychology and hope to complete the 5-year program to get my BA in psychology.”

− former LBS student


PROGRAMS AND SERVICES

“LINC helped me improve my English. I am proud of myself as I make and attend appointments without help. I recommend this class to everyone. You will learn a lot of things that will change your life.”

− LINC student

Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC) • Our students have indicated a level of great satisfaction on achieving goals that include:

Improved oral and listening skills they use at their place of employment Further involvement in their children’s education Finding employment and becoming more engaged in Canadian society Educational pursuits Gaining confidence in seeking out help for health related issues Advancement in their English language proficiency

• Several field trips including: a trip to Upper Canada Village made possible by sharing a bus

with Kingston Employment Youth Services (KEYS) LINC; a spring trip to Votary’s Farm and Sugar Bush; First Capital Day in Kingston at which we rowed a Voyageur canoe!

• In November the higher level students were able to participate in a Diversity Works

Symposium for immigrant job seekers. Sponsors included KEYS and Kingston Immigration Partnership (KIP). The students obtained valuable information from workshops and speakers and also made some connections that will help them in the future.

• Seasonal celebrations are always a highlight of the year for our students and staff. These

included Halloween, Thanksgiving and Christmas. Potlucks, games and music were enjoyed by all.

• KL&S LINC’s “Around the World” childcare program has received tremendous positive

feedback and is an additional benefit for our students. This year we welcomed 20 children from 17 families, most of whom would not have been able to attend classes otherwise. Our childcare program fosters children’s development and language while promoting the settlement of the whole family. This year a new literacy component was incorporated whereby parents were encouraged to read to their child at sleep-time, which promoted language skills, book awareness and the importance of consistent bedtime routines.

14

Family and Early Literacy (FEL) Family Literacy Programs: Reading And Parents Program (RAPP) – RAPP is a free lending program available to families. RAPP uses books, songs and rhymes to introduce children to pre-reading skills, and helps parents in their role as their child’s first and most important teacher. Toddler Music Time and Infant Music Time – These programs are for parents and children together, using songs and rhymes to introduce early literacy. Movement is incorporated into Toddler Music Time. This program served 14 adults and 11 children over six weeks. Literacy Make and Take Workshop Series – This series is for parents and children together, in which the parents created learning resources for their children. This program served 21 adults and 29 children over four weeks. Music Circle for Infants – This is a program for parents and their babies under 12 months of age. Parents learn songs and rhymes to use with their children. The program served 7 adults and 7 children over six weeks. Research: RAPP — In June 2012, FEL wrote a successful proposal for a research project with Queen’s Community Outreach Centre focusing on RAPP. The research question was: Does KL&S’ RAPP program influence and/or change parents’ family literacy practice so they read aloud to their children more often and engage in more literacy activities with their children in the home? The results showed that RAPP made a change! Seventy-two percent of study participants, who completed both pre- and post-program questionnaires, indicated that the RAPP program changed their reading habits with their children at home.

“I used to think that you could just read a story but now I know to point to words and talk about what’s happening in the story and pictures.”

− Parent, RAPP Participant

Highlights from the Year: PROGRAMS AND SERVICES

potential


PROGRAMS AND SERVICES

Early Literacy Training: A variety of workshops and presentations were delivered geared to parents and their babies and young children. Some highlights include: • Information about emergent literacy and learning provided on a one-to-one basis at

Ontario Early Years Centre (OEYC) and Parenting and Family Literacy playgroups • Read Together, Talk Together workshops for parents whose children are on the waitlist at

Early Expressions Preschool Speech and Language programs • Getting Ready to Read information sessions for parents whose children take part in the

School Readiness Playgroups at OEYC Workshops and presentations for professionals included: • Literacy workshops for summer camp counsellors • Coordination of the Early Literacy Specialists (ELS) Provincial Network’s Best Practices

Committee and the completion and presentation of the ELS Best Practices Guide at the Niagara Literacy Conference in September 2012

• Make and Take workshops for early learning professionals Projects: The Silly Chicken In an effort to reach under-served families, KL&S applied for and received a book application grant from the Institute for Cross-Cultural Exchange (ICE), an organization dedicated to promoting cross-cultural education. The Silly Chicken is a beautifully illustrated Afghan folktale for preschool and early primary school-aged children. KL&S received 200 copies of The Silly Chicken to distribute to families in Frontenac, Lennox & Addington, and Hastings Counties. We developed videos of book-sharing strategies and a quick questionnaire for parents to fill out, all about The Silly Chicken, and posted them on our website. Copies of The Silly Chicken are delivered via partner agencies to parents who fill out a questionnaire.

Alphabet Soup in Motion The Harold Crabtree Foundation provided funding for training in and delivery of the award-winning nutrition and literacy learning program, Alphabet Soup in Motion. KL&S partnered with Alternative Learning Styles and Outlooks (ALS0) in Ottawa, resulting in six Alphabet Soup in Motion programs that took place, serving 40 parents and 40 children.

16

Adult Education (Literacy and Basic Skills − LBS)

Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC)

Highlights of the Year: OUTCOMES

In the LINC program the number of contract seats is the minimum number of individuals per class. The LINC program surpassed its goal according to contract requirements because we there was enough demand to add people to all of our classes.

development

Number of Learners Satisfaction Results

MTCU, the funder for our LBS program, implemented a new set of guidelines (Ontario Adult Literacy Curriculum Framework, or OALCF) and a new database with which to document information from all locations across Ontario. Because this system calculates information in a new way, the number of students recorded will be different than in the old system – all with an aim to be consistent no matter where a student enrolls. Other changes also affected the number of students we brought in to the program, including more rigorous pre-screening to ensure the people who attend will progress and meet their goals – whether that be employment, further education, or increased independence.


Family and Early Literacy (FEL) Family Literacy One of the programs offered by Family Literacy is the Reading And Parents Program (RAPP). It is a resource-lending program designed to encourage family reading and help parents support their children’s literacy development. This year 525 RAPP packs were delivered. Early Literacy Specialists

OUTCOMES

Groups Served

Families Served

Children Served220

148

17 RAPP Delivery

Program Statistics

18

Organizational Chart

Executive Director

Kingston Literacy & Skills Volunteer Board of Directors

Board Committees: • Board Development • Executive/Finance • Human Resources • Marketing • Planning • Volunteer Advisory

Administrative Coordinators: • Administrative &

Centre • Marketing • Volunteer Support • Technical Services

Serving:

Kingston and Napanee

Serving: KFL&A, HFL&A and

Kingston and the Islands

Department Leader: Literacy & Basic Skills

Department Leader: Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada

Literacy and Basic Skills/Essential Skills

P. 9, 12

Family and Early Literacy

P. 10, 14, 15

Language Instruction for Newcomers

to Canada

P. 9, 13

Serving:

Kingston and Area

Department Leader: Family and Early Literacy


President: Robin Dawes, Associate Professor, Queen’s University Vice-President: Laura Kinderman, PhD candidate, Queen’s University Treasurer: Carrie Fraser, Queen’s University Secretary: Bonnie Livingstone, retired, Queen’s University Members at Large: Scott Clerk, Kingston Community Health Centres

Leonore Foster, retired City Councillor Brian Lai, PhD candidate, University of Ottawa Donna Perrin, Executive Director of KL&S (ex-officio) Kristin Stevens, Limestone District School Board Eugene Sun, PhD candidate, Queen’s University Geneviève Vallières, Assistant Professor, Royal Military College Canada Lester Webb, Kingston Frontenac Public Library

Governance

KL&S Board of Directors, 2012-13 Back row (L-R): Eugene Sun, Brian Lai, Robin Dawes, Geneviève Vallières, Laura Kinderman, Leonore Foster Front row (L-R): Donna Perrin (Executive Director), Carrie Fraser, Bonnie Livingstone Absent: Scott Clerk, Kristin Stevens, Lester Webb

20

Board Committees Executive / Finance: Carrie Fraser (Chair), Robin Dawes, Laura Kinderman, Bonnie

Livingstone, Lester Webb, Donna Perrin (ex-officio) The committee met on a regular basis starting in September to review the financial statements and variance reports. A new variance report format was created by the Treasurer to provide a better summary to be presented to the entire Board following the committee meeting. The committee also reviewed the 2013-14 Budget prior to recommending approval by the Board in March. Board Development: Laura Kinderman (Chair), Brian Lai, Bonnie Livingstone This committee is responsible for assembling a slate of nominees for the Board of Directors of Kingston Literacy & Skills and organizes orientation and continuous development opportunities for its Board members. It met four times since the last AGM, and recruited four new members to the Board. Human Resources (HR): Leonore Foster (Chair), Arlene Cronin, Laura Kinderman, Donna

Perrin (ex-officio) This committee is responsible for overseeing the effective management of the staff of Kingston Literacy & Skills and met approximately 10 times since the last AGM. The committee conducted the 12-month performance appraisal of the Executive Director (ED) and provided advice to the KL&S President regarding feedback to be provided to the ED. The performance appraisal was in part based on feedback received from KL&S Board members, senior staff members as well as community partners. The HR committee also: • Revised the By-Laws of the organization • Assisted the Board Development Committee in its work • Worked on the development of a Policy Manual for KL&S • Reviewed, revised and developed over 20 policies to date


Board Committees

Marketing: Geneviève Vallières (Chair), Laura Kinderman, Cheryl Bird (staff), Donna Perrin (ex-officio)

The purpose of this committee is to support marketing priorities, which include public awareness and fundraising aspects. The committee met four times. The terms of reference for the committee were revised, fundraising goals for the year were set at $21,500 and new events were implemented. These events are the Christmas Carol fundraiser and a revitalized version of the Chez Piggy dinner. Planning: Robin Dawes (Co-Chair), Laura Kinderman (Co-Chair), Donna Perrin (ex-officio)

This year the Planning Committee’s main task was to assist with the strategic planning process for the organization. It recruited a facilitator for the joint board/staff planning session and hosted subsequent sessions to ensure that the plan was fully articulated at a policy-level. In this capacity, it met three times since the last AGM. Volunteer Advisory: Laura Kinderman (Chair), Scott Clerk, Noni Cumming, Robin Dawes,

Allison Handelman (staff) This committee re-evaluated its purpose in response to the changing needs of the organization and re-wrote its Terms of Reference to reflect a new advisory focus on supporting volunteers at a strategic level at KL&S. It reviewed and revised the Volunteer Management Policies developed in April 2011 and created a new Volunteer Handbook. It met nine times since the last AGM.

“Tutoring at KL&S is the most rewarding volunteer work I have ever done. Each student has given me unique insights into the teaching/learning dynamic. I look forward to every tutoring session.”

− One-to-one tutor

22

Board Committees

Social Enterprise Ad Hoc Committee: Scott Clerk (Chair), Robin Dawes, Leonore Foster, Lester Webb, James Kesten (Queen’s University), Irteza Omar (Queen’s University), Donna Perrin (ex-officio)

The Social Enterprise Committee was formed in July 2012 in order to consider potential revenue-generating business options available to KL&S. "Social enterprise" is a term used to describe any business operations of a non-profit that also support the social aims of the organization. As public funds become more scarce, non-profit organizations are turning to social enterprise as a strategy, both to sustain core programming and deliver innovative programming. The committee's task was to determine whether the social enterprise model could be useful to KL&S and identify a plausible social business opportunity. For this task, the committee partnered with the Social Impact Club of the Queen's University School of Business. The committee met several times before deciding to take the issue to a broader group for brainstorming and further discussions. In October, over 20 people participated in a brainstorming session held at the KL&S LINC site. Participants included staff, board members, business students and local business experts. While several ideas were discussed, and these discussions were captured in a final report by the Social Impact Club, no clear business opportunity emerged. Some of the business idea discussions turned into calls for increased fundraising and creative cost-reduction for our programs. Of the reasonably viable business ideas, none would have a significant impact on overall revenue for the organization. After an engaging and interesting process, the committee decided not to pursue any social enterprise options at this time.


Volunteers are an integral part of the success of KL&S and play a crucial role in our one-to-one tutoring program. We were very fortunate to have 70 volunteers generously donate 5,000 hours of their time to KL&S during the 2012-13 year. We hold our volunteers in high regard! They are formally recognized and thanked during National Volunteer Week as well as informally throughout the year. We continue to offer a range of volunteer opportunities. Governance Board of Directors KL&S is governed by a volunteer Board of Directors, which is advised by six Board committees. Board Committees From marketing to planning to volunteer development, ideas and hands are always appreciated on the various KL&S Board committees (please see pages 20 to 22 for more information on Board committees). Adult Education (Literacy and Basic Skills) One-to-one tutoring has been a part of Kingston Literacy & Skills since our inception in 1977. Before being matched with a student, individuals are required to successfully complete a 16-hour training program.

Volunteering at KL&S

“The tutoring program at Kingston Literacy & Skills is very useful to me because I received significant help from my tutor especially in English grammar, writing, reading and sentence structure. All this help caused me to have good progress in my English language.”

− One-to-one student

24 value

Volunteering at KL&S

Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC) Volunteers help out in the classroom by conducting conversation classes, helping with some one-to-one learning, and supporting the teacher in the classroom. Family and Early Literacy (FEL) Preparation of RAPP packs and craft materials are a couple of the areas in which volunteers help out. Volunteer opportunities depend on what FEL programs are being offered. Additional Opportunities These include helping out with events (especially with the Grate Groan-Up Spelling Bee − our main fundraiser), administrative assistance and maintenance of both our LBS and LINC resource libraries.

Members of the 2012-13 Grate Groan-Up Spelling Bee Committee

A dedicated LBS Resource Library volunteer!


Staff As of March 31, 2013 Executive Director Donna Perrin Accounts Coordinator Donna Vinkle Literacy and Basic Skills Laurie DesLauriers Anne Jackson Anastasia Knechtel Silver Alanna Larsen Darren MacDonald Cheryl Robinson Martha Rudden (Manager) Stacy Watson Deborah Wood Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada Irene Casey Jade Garrison Robyn German (Manager) Nataliya Gurska Ursula O’Dell Catherine Owen Carolin Taguchi Ellen Turcotte

Family Literacy Anne Jackson Early Literacy Specialists Debbie Nesbitt-Munroe (Kingston & the Islands) (Manager) Susan Ramsay (Hastings-Frontenac-Lennox & Addington) Marketing Cheryl Bird Volunteer Support Allison Handelman Maintenance Shar Taw Moo Evelyn Parks

Staff enjoying a laugh at the Staff Retreat held in September 2012

26

Thank You Partners • Alternative Learning Styles and Outlooks (ALSO) • Association Canadienne-Francaise de l’Ontario Conseil Régional des Milles-Iles (ACFO-MI) • Algonquin and Lakeshore Catholic District School Board • Better Beginnings for Kingston Children • Career Edge • Community Employment Resource Centre North • Community Health Centre in Napanee • Immigrant Services Kingston and Area (ISKA) • Kingston Employment Youth Services (KEYS) • KFL&A Public Health, Early Expressions • Kingston Immigration Partnership (KIP) • Kingston Frontenac Public Library • Kingston Military Family Resource Centre (KMFRC) • L&A Public Library • Lennox & Addington Resources for Children • La Route du Savoir • Limestone Community Education Centre • Limestone District School Board • Literacy Link Eastern Ontario (LLEO) • Northern Connections • Ontario Early Years Centre (OEYC) • Ontario March of Dimes, Employment Resource Centre • Ontario Works • Open Book • Prince Edward, Lennox & Addington Community Futures Development Corp. • Prince Edward, Lennox & Addington Social Services (PELASS) • Parenting and Family Literacy Centres at Limestone Board (PFLC) • Queen’s University • St. Lawrence College • St. Lawrence College Employment Services • The Child Centre (Sharbot Lake) • The Salvation Army Kingston Citadel • The Salvation Army Napanee • The Salvation Army Rideau Heights Community Church


Program Funders Literacy and Basic Skills • Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities • Human Resources Skills Development Canada,

Office of Literacy and Essential Skills and Canada Summer Jobs

• The United Way Serving KFL&A • City of Kingston, Ontario Works • St. Lawrence College • Literacy Link Eastern Ontario (project– based

services) • Prince Edward Lennox & Addington Social Services • Community Response to Neighbourhood Concerns • Community Foundation for Kingston & Area Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada • Citizenship and Immigration Canada Family and Early Literacy • Ministry of Children and Youth Services • Harold Crabtree Foundation • Queen’s University Faculty of Education Community

Outreach Centre • Community Response to Neighbourhood Concerns • Community Foundation for Kingston and Area

Thank You

28

Donors Advocates of KL&S (Generous Donations of $1500 or more) • Chez Piggy • Robert Crandall • Mr. and Mrs. Robert Johnson • KIX 93.5/K-ROCK 105.7/102.7 The Lake • Rotary Club of Cataraqui—Kingston • TD Bank Group • TV Cogeco Supporters of KL&S (Generous Donations of $500 or more) • CUPE Local 109 • Investors Group • KIMCO Steel • Kincore Holdings • Doreen and Dave MacNamara • VIA Rail Canada Friends of KL&S (Generous Donations of $250 or more)

Thank You

• Aaben Windows and Doors • Friends of the Library • B. Allan • Linda Hirschorn

• Bergeron Clifford Personal Injury Lawyers • Kingston Frontenac Public Library

• Bombardier Transportation • Kingston Whig-Standard

• Century 21, Don Wyld • Bonnie Livingstone

• Cunningham, Swan, Carty, Little & Bonham • Ministry of Children and Youth Services (staff)

• Empire Life • Queen’s University Libraries

• Viner, Kennedy, Frederick, Alan & Tobias


Financial Information Sources and Distribution of Funding KL&S receives most of its funding from federal and provincial sources. We are also funded by charitable donations from businesses, organizations and individuals, municipal and foundation grants, professional services, resource sales and the United Way. Our sources of revenue for the 2012-13 year are broken down in each program area:

30

Sources and Distribution of Funding

Financial Information


Financial Information Fundraising Fundraising continues to be a small but important source of revenue. Our signature event, the Grate Groan-Up Spelling Bee, is now in its 19th year. Revenues from the Bee over the past five years averaged $21,588. We also continue to do an annual mail campaign. We also added three new fundraisers this past year: • A reading of Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol” — This event was performed by local

celebrities • Chez Piggy— a long–time supporter of KL&S, Chez Piggy, local restaurant extraordinaire,

provided a special menu for three evenings, the proceeds of which went to KL&S • Fundscript— this provides the opportunity for people to purchase gift cards (at face value)

to favourite shopping establishments; a percentage of the card value goes to KL&S. We hope to make A Christmas Carol and our initiative with Chez Piggy annual events. We continue to look at ways to maximize our current fundraisers as well as consider additional fundraising initiatives.


Contact Information KL&S Kingston (Administration; Literacy and Basic Skills; Family Literacy) 859 Princess Street, Kingston, ON K7L 1G7 tel: 613.547.2012 fax: 613.547.2024 KL&S Napanee (Literacy and Basic Skills) 55 Dundas Street East, Napanee, ON K7R 1H7 tel: 613.354.0226 fax: 613.354.1021 Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada 16 Bath Road, Kingston ON K7L 1C4 tel: 613.547.2255 fax: 613.507.8008 Early Literacy Specialists Kingston and the Islands tel: 613.546.9355 Hastings-Frontenac-Lennox & Addington tel: 613.354.6318

[email protected] www.klandskills.ca

Kingston Literacy & Skills is an incorporated non-profit organization and a registered charity. We are funded by government sources and charitable donations from businesses, organizations and individuals.

Charitable Business Number: 11898 2172 RR0001

kingston literacy skills · fundraising – to support our family literacy program may 10, 2012 the...

Documents