Adult Literacy Programs

Group photo of a group of women wearing face masks, in a learning centre.


Most of Action Read’s programs and services are in-person. However, we offer some online remote tutoring via Zoom to individuals who cannot attend in-person programs. Computer support is available. Speak to staff if you are interested.

1. One-to-One Tutoring


Partners adults who want to improve their skills with trained volunteers who meet for one to three hours each week. In creating matches, we consider the needs, schedules and interests of both the learner and the volunteer tutor. The learner’s goals and individualized plan guide the tutoring process. Ongoing staff support and assessment are provided. We rely on the help and support of dozens of amazing tutors who also provide their skills, time, and support. Learners can be involved in tutoring and / or group learning at the same time.

2. Group Learning


Action Read offers a variety of groups that focus on improving reading, writing and numeracy for learners who are at basic and intermediate literacy levels. We offer short-term and ongoing groups. There is a maximum of 12 people per group.

We offer groups in Academic Skills Upgrading, Creative Writing (‘Coming from the Heart’), Microsoft Office Skills Upgrading, and Northstar Digital Literacy Certificate at different times throughout the week. We also offer short-term Scheduled Courses and Workshops.

3. Digital Literacy Skills Program


Learners at Action Read are using computers to improve their reading and writing skills in all kinds of ways. They are exploring the web, reading and write e-mails, researching health and employment issues, and practicing their literacy skills. They are using software that accommodates special learning needs.

Computer Groups run every week. We use the Northstar Digital Literacy Assessments program, and we make use of other tools and resources as well. Here are some examples of how learners use our program…

– Sylvia comes to Computer Group to build her skills and credentials for employment.
– Akash comes to Computer Group to learn how to use social media and his phone safely and securely.
– Patricia is sight impaired. She uses the computers at Action Read to type her life story, using Microsoft Word. She uses ZoomText, which enlarges everything on the screen.