What We Do
The Coalition operates:
- the ABC Line, a hotline, which provides information and referral services to adults who want to upgrade their basic education.
We have information about:
- a variety of literacy and basic skills programs
- high school credit courses or equivalents
- volunteering in literacy
In addition, the Coalition:
- coordinates the preparation of an annual Literacy Service Plan for Ottawa
- provides professional development for literacy practitioners
- coordinates special projects
- publishes four issues of our newsletter, The Update
- organizes and participates in outreach and public awareness activities
Mandate
The Ottawa Community Coalition for Literacy (OCCL) has served and supported the adult literacy community since 1984. We are a non-profit, charitable organization providing information and referral services, professional development and service planning. We are funded by the provincial and federal governments, memberships, donations and fundraising.
The Board of Directors is responsible for the ongoing operations of the Coalition. The Local Planning and Coordination Committee (LPCC), a committee of the OCCL, is responsible for planning literacy services. The LPCC is made up of representatives from the Literacy and Basic Skills agencies in Ottawa.
Values
Client Orientation
- We place the needs of adult literacy learners foremost in all we do.
- We consider the accessibility and equity needs of literacy learners and members.
- We aim for high quality, effective services.
Teamwork
- We realize we are stronger when we share responsibilities and resources.
- We understand the benefits of partnering with other networks and community agencies to support the needs of adult literacy learners.
Community Building
- We foster effective communication and working relationships with funding sources.
- We facilitate and influence the development of learner-focused and results-oriented community service plans.
- We support lifelong learning for literacy learners, members, staff and volunteers.
- We recognize that strength and creativity come from diversity.
Work Ethic
- We treat all people with dignity and respect.
- We act with integrity, honesty and compassion.
- We are accountable for our actions, transparent in our use of resources and clear in our reporting.
Who Provides Our Funding
The Coalition appreciates the important support we receive from:
- Our core funder, Skills Investment Branch, Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities, MTCU
- Our Friends of Literacy who provide support through their memberships and donations.
Who We Are
The Coalition brings together and supports adult literacy and basic skills programs and related services in Ottawa. Our Local Planning and Coordination Committee has members from the following organizations: