Program Overview

The program was established in 1993 to discover and acknowledge the achievements of Canadians who have made a special effort or an important contribution to literacy.

Today, the Community Literacy Awards program continues to celebrate the achievements of both adult learners and those who have helped them learn to read and write.

By acknowledging their efforts, the Community Literacy Awards encourage thousands of Canadians to improve their reading and writing skills, and inspire them to reach their personal literacy goals.  For many, that means obtaining their Secondary School Diploma or General Educational Development (GED) in either of Canada’s official languages. For others, it means reaching a level of reading and writing proficiency that allows them to more fully participate in the world around them.

More about this program (PDF)

Award Categories and Prizes

There are 2 award categories, both representing a broad range of literacy accomplishments:

• Individual Achievement Awards (PDF)

Celebrate the achievements of adult learners who overcame social or economic barriers by improving their literacy or English as a Second Language/French as a Second Language (ESL/FSL) skills.

Winners in this category receive a cash award of $300 and a framed, personalized Certificate of Achievement. 

• Educator Awards (PDF)

Honour English- and French-speaking educators, tutors, and advocates who have demonstrated a commitment to adult literacy or adult ESL/FSL training.

Winners in this category receive a cash award of $500 and a framed, personalized Certificate of Achievement.

How to make a nomination

The nomination period is now closed! View the list of winners.

Sign up to receive advanced notification or visit this page in March 2010 for information about next year’s program.

Nominating is easy. Simply follow these 5 easy steps:

1. Review Literacy Awards Rules (PDF)
   
   
2. Download the Individual Achievement (PDF) or Educator Award nomination form (PDF)
   
   
3. Clearly fill out the Nominee Information section of the form. See example
   
   
4. If you are nominating someone other than yourself, fill out the Nominator Information section of the form. See example
   
   Remember to ask the Nominee to sign the form. See example
   
   
5. Check the form again and sign before mailing to:
   
   2009 CANADA POST COMMUNITY LITERACY AWARDS
   2701 RIVERSIDE DR SUITE N1081
   OTTAWA ON K1A 0B1

Entries must be received in Ottawa by Friday, May 22, 2009 midnight (EDT).

Limit your entry to a maximum of 5 typed, letter-size pages (plus the nomination form).

Important Program Dates

More information and Feedback about this Program

• Stay informed with Literacy Awards emails
  
  
• Read about the program milestones in our News Releases
  
  
• Download the Literacy Awards Booklet (PDF) or get a printed copy by contacting us at:
  
  2009 CANADA POST COMMUNITY LITERACY AWARDS
  2701 RIVERSIDE DR SUITE N1081
  OTTAWA ON  K1A 0B1
  
  
• We are interested in your comments and welcome your feedback*

* Please note that comments submitted to this email address will be used to help us improve the Literacy Program. No reply will be provided.