Programs and Services

Image from our International Women's Day Celebration (March 2018)

According to Statistics Canada, over 40% of all Canadians need help with literacy. Approximately 38% of Canadians have trouble dealing with simple reading tasks. In fact, almost 35% of Canadians over the age of 65 did not complete elementary school.

Parkdale Project Read's mandate is to support adults to learn how to read, write, and develop basic math and computer skills.

We support over 150 youth, adults and their families each year to meet their learning goals. These may include, entering college and university, accessing employment and training programs, and establishing their independence.

Our small staff team and dedicated volunteers usually work at our busy learning centre at the corner of King and Dufferin in Toronto. It has served as a vital gathering space for learners in the community. During the COVID-19 pandemic, we have had to place our in-person programming on-hold in accordance with provincial and municipal guidelines. We currently offer remote learning groups and online programming.

Parkdale Project Read takes a ‘learner-centered’ approach to teaching, developing lesson plans according to the specific interests and needs of learners, working from the basis of their lived experience and knowledge, and focusing on literacy from a critical perspective and as a tool for community building.

At Parkdale Project Read, literacy is about the development of the whole learner—not just reading and writing. It is about building confidence, self-esteem, awareness and autonomy. It is about the ability to name and articulate emotions and express viewpoints so that learners can assert their rights and needs. It is about encouraging learners to explore new possibilities and become more active in their communities.

Our free programs and services include:

• Academic Upgrading for youth bridging to post-secondary studies
• Educational groups to learn literacy skills in a supportive community
• Book Clubs designed for adult literacy learners
• Expressive Arts Programs such as creative writing and visual arts
• Health and Wellness workshops to keep our community safe
  
  

This Employment Ontario program is funded by the Ontario government

Group Schedule - all groups are currently offered on Zoom

Grammar group is offered on Tuesdays from 2 PM - 3:30 PM. Students learn ways to express themselves and communicate effectively with others.

Creative Writing group is offered on Wednesdays from 2 PM - 3:30 PM. Students observe and write as a form of mindfulness, creative expression, and community care.

Self-Care group is offered on Thursdays from 2 PM - 3:30 PM. Students learn strategies to manage stress, understand emotional literacy, and improve mental health and wellness.

For more information on how to join our programs, please contact us.