Released on July 28, 2006
Carey Rigby-Wilcox, a community literacy volunteer from Saskatoon, has been named the Saskatchewan recipient of the Council of the Federation Literacy Award for 2006.Carey Rigby-Wilcox is a literacy learner, activist and volunteer who is deeply committed to promoting and advancing literacy at the community, provincial and national levels. Her exposure to community literacy work was through READ Saskatoon where she first became involved as a learner in 1993.
She is a former vice-president of READ Saskatoon's Board of Directors and is also a board member of the Saskatchewan Literacy Network and the Movement for Canadian Literacy Board of Directors. She speaks to various groups about the challenges faced by people with low literacy skills.
"Ms. Rigby-Wilcox is an inspiration to volunteers all across the province," Premier Calvert said. "Her contribution to raising the awareness of literacy in Saskatchewan is helping the province to build a social legacy that will enhance the quality of life in our communities for generations to come."
"Literacy is key to ensuring that Saskatchewan people can take full advantage of all that the province has to offer," Minister responsible for Literacy Deb Higgins said. "Carey Rigby-Wilcox's contribution will help many individuals participate more fully in the social, cultural and economic life of our province."
The Council of the Federation Literacy Award recognizes outstanding achievement and excellence in literacy and is presented annually to an individual in each province and territory in Canada. Rigby-Wilcox is being honoured for her exemplary level of commitment to her community and for her desire to make a difference in the lives of non-readers across the province.
"Carey Rigby-Wilcox is an excellent role model for literacy who has shared her experiences both as a literacy learner and as a literacy volunteer," Saskatchewan Literacy Commissioner Dr. Margaret Lipp said.
The Saskatchewan Literacy Commission (SLC) works closely with community partners to co-ordinate the human and financial resources dedicated to literacy in the province.
Premier Calvert will honour Rigby-Wilcox with a medallion and certificate at a ceremony this fall.
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For More Information, Contact:
| Caroline MacMurchy Saskatchewan Literacy Commission Regina Phone: (306) 787-2663 Email: cmacmurchy@slc.gov.sk.ca |