Developing important skills
Five individuals supported by CLBC in the Simon Fraser region will be taking part in the new Read On! adult individual reading and communication program at the Down Syndrome Research Foundation’s Centre for Specialized Learning.
The Read On! adult program is designed to support people who had limited opportunity to learn to read while in school, or who would like to build on an existing base of reading skills. Supporting students who seek to improve communication skills or learn English is another key facet of the program.
Alyaa and her teacher Candace.
“It gives opportunities that these individuals would normally not be able to access. This program will provide great transition support for our youth and employment readiness skills for all,” says Jamila Reckord, CLBC Facilitator in the Simon Fraser Region.
The individuals participating in the program received full funding from the Ministry for Social Development’s BC Employment Program through Triumph Vocational Services.
“In conjunction with CLBC and the Specialized Centre for Learning, Triumph has supported a variety of clients to access specialized learning opportunities to allow them to prepare for the competitive workforce. Triumph has worked with CLBC for many years, supporting clients to develop meaningful employment plans and tailoring services to focus on the client’s abilities and strengths,” says Triumph’s Regional Director Michael Hawkins.
“We are very grateful for this partnership” says Jamila.
The Read On! program uses the interests of the students as a launch pad to reading success, says Pat Hanbury, Program Manager with the Centre for Specialized Learning. “The one-to-one format also supports individual goals that may include reading comprehension, numeracy and computer skills. We also support small groups of students in a Reading and Communication Plus and Transition program. All of these programs are designed to build confidence and support important social communication skills. We welcome our new students and have enjoyed getting to know Meaghen, Jenny and Jamila from CLBC as well as the Triumph team through this partnership.”
Alyaa is one of the five participants in the ReadOn! Program. She is a newcomer to Canada, moving from Iraq with her parents two years ago. “I’m so happy to be included in the ReadOn! program here in Burnaby. I am thankful for this opportunity to work on my speaking and English skills,” she says.
Alyaa is excited about the lessons and information to be learned through the program and also about the opportunities it will provide. “I hope to learn more about transportation, safety and Canadian culture. I look forward to making new friends and working.”
