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The 2002 Canada Post Literacy Awards And the winner is...! The 10th Annual Canada Post Literacy Awards took place at the Delta Hotel in St. John's, NL on Thursday, September 12, 2002. The Canada Post Literacy Awards are the only national awards dedicated to recognizing grass roots initiatives within the literacy community and to celebrating achievements of learners alongside those who help them learn to read and write.
Each year, the Literacy Development Council of Newfoundland and Labrador works closely with Canada Post to coordinate the Canada Post Literacy Awards in this province. This year's awards coincided with the celebration of UNESCO's "International Adult Learners Week", that took place from September 8 - 14, 2002. Representatives from Health Canada, Canada Post and the Department of Education were on hand for the event. The Honourable Judy Foote, Minister of Education delivered greetings on behalf of the provincial government. "It is vital that we acknowledge and thank all contributors in this partnership, especially the volunteers who are crucial to making this a success," said Minister Foote. "Lifelong learning is not simply a catch phrase, we are aiming for the highest literacy rates in Canada and to do this it is essential that we partner with each other and foster a culture of literacy." Winners were selected from each of the provinces and territories by a panel of impartial judges assembled by Canada Post Corporation. Indeed, eighty-nine learners and ninety businesses were honored at special ceremonies across the country this fall. "A genuine hero", Kelly Lambert of Shoal Harbour received the Individual Achievement Award. Kelly was presented with a Certificate of Accomplishment and will receive a new personal computer system. Kelly's story begins with her acceptance into an adult education program about 2 years ago. She has since moved on to enroll in an office administration course. The audience was moved by Kelly's acceptance speech and rose to give her a standing ovation. Kelly, who also volunteers with the Victim Services Advisory Committee is a true inspiration to her peers and a shining example of success. This year's Educator Award went to Janet Skinner of Happy Valley-Goose Bay. Often described as a "warrior for literacy", Janet was responsible for helping to establish a northern network in Labrador, and developing resource materials and community literacy projects. The Educator Award honours tutors and advocates who have demonstrated a commitment to the literacy cause. Presented to Partners in Learning of West St. Modeste, the Community Leadership Award honours organizations that have demonstrated long-term achievement and innovation in the literacy field. Agnes Pike accepted the $2000 cash award on behalf of the grassroots organization. "To receive this support and acknowledgment gives us the energy and enthusiasm that we need to continue our work," said Ms. Pike.
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