I have long understood the importance of literacy and its role as a tool for success. Having the ability to read, at any age, opens up new opportunities for employment, entertainment and a better quality of life. There are many organizations in Surrey and throughout B.C. that make literacy a priority.

Surrey Public Library - with branches in areas including Newton and Semiahmoo, the public library provides and promotes access to local and global information and ideas, encourages literacy and support lifelong learning for all Surrey residents.

Reading Tree – Books for Charity - a not-for-profit organization whose sole focus is to keep books out of landfills and into the hands of children that need them the most. Since 2007, it has helped collect and donate over 80,000 books to schools and children in the Fraser Valley and Lower Mainland.

YMCA’s Literacy and Leadership program - integrated throughout YMCA Child Care centres, this initiative focuses on providing learning and leadership development through a variety of literacy-based activities, including peer mentoring, creative writing, cooking, dramatic arts and more.

LiteracyBC - an independent, non-partisan, membership-based, not-for-profit organization which has been promoting and supporting literacy and lifelong learning in BC since 1990.

BCLiteracy Directory -  an easy way to find programs to improve your reading, writing and English language skills. Or call toll-free 1-888-732-3234.

• Click here for literacy programs in the Surrey – South Surrey area.