National Adult Literacy Database

December 3, 2007

This week, we have a story written by Sane, from Toronto, Ontario.  Sane is enrolled in literacy classes at Frontier College, with the Independent Studies Program.  This program is a community-based adult literacy program located in downtown Toronto that provides learning opportunities to people with disabilities. The program helps students work towards greater self-confidence and personal independence so that they can take part in or move on to other educational, employment or life opportunities.

What Literacy Means To Me

by Sane

The dictionary definition says Literacy means to be able to read, write and comprehend. But to me it means much more. It means the confidence to express my thoughts, feelings and ideas and to socialize with people.

I came to Frontier College because I wanted to find a job. I didn’t want to stay at home relying on a government income. I wanted to be independent and earning my own living like able-bodied people.

But I knew that I needed to improve my reading and writing skills if I wanted to find employment and be an active member of my community.

I attend two classes a week at Frontier College where I participate in the Independent Studies program and the Book Club. In the Independent Studies class, I study grammar, spelling, punctuation and math. In the Book Club, I apply the skills I have learned in Independent Studies to writing book reviews and increasing my reading comprehension.

I also come to Frontier College on my own time to make use of the literacy programs available on the computer. I also use this time to do research on topics of interest to me such as how to design blueprints or where to find courses on cabinet making.

Since attending Frontier College, I have had a number of accomplishments. I have seen my reading skills improve. For example, I now enjoy reading short story books at home. I have also written and recorded a piece about literacy for a spoken word CD. And last year, I decided to do volunteer work at a Mill Shop. This led to short-term employment as a cabinet maker.

I used to be shy about expressing myself because I was afraid of using the wrong words. Now, I’m willing to risk making mistakes in order to express my ideas. Since my overall confidence has grown, I have expanded my career choices. The encouragement I get from staff and tutors makes me know that I will be successful in achieving my goals.

My goals have broadened since I first came to Frontier College. Now I know I want to own and operate my own cabinet making shop. I am also going to take courses in drafting and blueprint design. And, one day, I would like to create and produce music.

Literacy is something that is very important because it makes me feel good about myself and my ability to be part of my community and share my knowledge with others.

[This story was taken with permission, from the Frontier College website, under Testimonials.]