Pathways | Free Literacy & Numeracy Programs

Free Literacy & Numeracy Programs

Education, Immigrant and Refugee Services, Indigenous Services, Social / Recreational, and Youth Services

Provided by Literacy Central Vancouver Island

LCVI offers free literacy and numeracy programs in schools, community centres, shelters - anywhere they're invited.

Literacy Central Vancouver Island (LCVI) provides various literacy and numeracy programs to provide support to people of all ages and life stages, working to meet the community's priorities and goals. LCVI does this through one-on-one tutoring support, youth creative interactive programs, essential skills for adults and more! Structured programming is free, and includes the following:

Adult Programs

Core Adult Program provides tutors to adults in the community wishing to upgrade their basic skills such as reading, writing, math and computers. Each learner is assessed and receives an individualized program for their needs before being matched with a trained tutor. Learning sessions work together for up to three hours per week, usually at the 19 Commercial Street building. To access this service download the Adult Learner Intake Form and email it to adult.learning@lcvi.ca.
ESL Conversation Groups & One-on-One Tutor Support is available for those looking to learn in a more social setting. Conversation groups are offered across Nanaimo in locations such as Vancouver Island Public Libraries. Download the ESL Intake Form and email it to adult.learning@lcvi.ca to get started with either of these language programs.

Family Programs can be access by completing the Family Intake Form and emailing it to family@lcvi.ca

Literacy is Our Legacy assesses each child and matches them with a trained tutor who will provide one-on-one learning tailored to the child's needs up to three hours a week. Parents must always attend when their child is with the tutor, and would discuss a learning plan around their child's learning goals.
Leaders in Literacy & Numeracy - Ladysmith is a program where youth in high school can volunteer at Ladysmith Primary to become a reading or math buddy to elementary school children in order to earn volunteer hours for high school graduation requirements. High school students can volunteer as much as their schedule allows, and support students individually or in a group setting.
Bears and Beams matches volunteers to children in classrooms throughout School District #68 who are in need or extra help with reading or math. Working under the direction of the classroom teacher, this individual attention has proven to be rewarding for both student and volunteer.
iPals prepares preschool children for kindergarten by introducing various activities designed to help parents teach their children through play. This program has proven to improve children's literacy skills as well as strengthen relationships between parents and their children.

Youth Programs can be accessed by guardians filling out the Parent/Guardian Consent Form and the Youth Learner Intake Form. Please email these documents to youth@lcvi.ca to access these free programs for youth ages 12+

Workshops are offered from the Youth Literacy Coordinator and cover topics youth request, such as intercultural communication, exploring values and beliefs, consent and healthy relationships, body image, mental health, and gender diversity.
Individual Support from the compassionate team at LCVI who will help you determine what you want to learn from your tutor; help you build school, career and life skills; determine what your "next steps" may be, and how to get there.
Dungeons & Dragons Club is offered through Nanaimo Parks and Rec for all skill levels to build their literacy skills in an all inclusive, welcoming environment. Click HERE to see the latest Parks & Rec guide to register.

Indigenous Programs can be accessed by filling out the Adult Learner Intake Form and emailing it to wahkohtowin@lcvi.ca

Reclaiming Our Education is one-on-one tutoring offered to adult First Nation, Inuit and Métis learner who are assessed and matched with a trained tutor. An individualized program is offered where the pair meets up to three hours a week to address the learner's needs in reading, writing, math, budgeting skills and computer skills. Sessions can be held at specific locations on-reserve throughout Stz’uminus, Snuneymuxw, and Snaw-naw-as First Nations, or off-reserve at VIU, Tillicum Lelum or at the main office downtown at 19 Commercial Street. Assistance is available for students enrolled at VIU and at Tillicum Lelum.
It's a Good Day to be Indigenous is a monthly gathering occurring every second Sunday located at 19 Commercial Street where the community celebrates Indigenous culture through literature, music and arts. Discuss community-led projects, connect and reconnect, and teach or learn a craft - beading, knitting, creating and gathering together. Allies are encouraged to attend as well
Indigenous & Allies Writing Circle is a safe space to write or connect with emerging writers, learn of writing contests, and how to apply - as well as explore the publishing world. No experience is necessary, and everyone is welcome to attend as the Circle is available on Zoom as well.

Computer Programs

One-on-One Lessons to learn tips to avoid everyday problems associated with computers, smartphones and other devices. Topics include problems with MS Office, sending emails, filling out online forms, applying to jobs, using social media - and more. Call 250-754-8988 or email info@lcvi.ca to book an appointment
Computer Refurbishing Program is available for those who cannot afford a computer and are at school or are upgrading. Computers are given, at no charge, to families, students, non-profit organizations, and those in need. Please complete the Computer Request Form and email it to info@lcvi.ca to request a computer.

Please contact LCVI to discuss outreach options if you are unable to travel to Nanaimo.

Various rotating workshops and events are also offered throughout the year.

250-754-8988

Public email: info@lcvi.ca

Website: https://lcvi.ca/our-programs/

Literacy Central Vancouver Island - 19 Commercial Street, Nanaimo, British Columbia, V9R 5G3

Hours of Operation are Monday through Saturday from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and Sunday from 12:00 PM - 5:00 PM

250-754-8988 (Adult & Family Programs)

Public email: family@lcvi.ca

Website: https://lcvi.ca/adult/

250-754-8988 (Youth Programs)

Public email: youth@lcvi.ca

Website: https://lcvi.ca/youth/

250-754-8988 (Indigenous Programs)