June 2003

Community Literacy of Ontario

By Rejeanne Faucher, New Leaf Literacy Program, Sudbury

Workforce Literacy:
A Virtual Reality for Learners

In November 2002, the Sudbury Vocational Resource Centre’s New Leaf Literacy Program opened the doors to its first earner operated virtual business. The “FROM ME TO YOU OUTLET STORE” holds inventory donated by local merchants, staff and volunteers.

This outlet operates with its own bank and currency. Learners are paid minimum wage based on hours of attendance and additional hours for specific tasks. These tasks are assigned based on each individual’s abilities. Hours are recorded and then submitted to the payroll/accounting department (conducted by learners) who calculate payroll and issue cheques.

Individual bank accounts have been set up for each participant through Excel and learners can deposit their earnings. Access is available to their account balances. During store hours their earned dollars will allow them to purchase items in the outlet. Through this workforce training, our learners are able to perform tasks such as: inventory, pricing, customer service, money management, and operating a cash register. When an interest in working in the outlet is demonstrated, a resume and completed application form must be submitted to the coordinator. Once hired, employees are assigned a student workbook and an employee handbook, which allows them to become familiar with retail expectations. When the individual is ready, training on the cash register is offered by the assistant manager (promoted learner) and is overseen by a volunteer. The coordinator and the numeracy instructor administer this endeavour.

The outlet provides an opportunity to purchase clothing, books, toys, household items, personal grooming products and even makeup. As the majority of our learners live on low incomes, this service has been an appreciated one.

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