Trails to Literacy: PHASES
Advocate the participation of placements in the project, especially through benefit providers such as Ontario Works (social services provider), Ontario Disability Support, Workers Safety and Insurance Board, private insurers, Employment Insurance, etc. Work placements encourage a broader scope of workforce-type training for the individual. Many referring partners appreciate placement opportunities as a way for their clients to gain employment skills that are not provided in most ‘school-based’ learning formats.
People on placement may take on purely volunteer-type activities such as tutoring, carpentry supervisor or administration. They may also concurrently be active literacy/numeracy learners.
Gaining a strong volunteer base ensures a continuity that is positive for any project. Contact local community groups and individuals to promote the idea of your Trail to Literacy and its benefits. Consider beforehand how your project ties in with their needs and objectives. What will be the benefits to them? The opportunity for individuals to share their ‘passion’ or to volunteer their talents and experience is a satisfying option for many.