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A NEWSLETTER PUBLICATION OF PROJECT LITERACY KELOWNA SOCIETY
205-591 BERNARD AVENUE KELOWNA BC V1Y 6N9 PHONE 762-2163 FAX: 762-0764
April 2005

PLKS Learner: An Artist and Humanitarian

graphic - photo of Christian LafranceChristian Lafrance, a recent transplant from Quebec, is a delightful embodiment of the French phrase "joie de vive". After spending a couple of summers in the 0kanagan picking fruit Christian was won over by the lake, the beaches and the weather. He decided to "break free" from his life in Quebec, seeking "new challenges" and opportunities in Kelowna. Having studied Psycho-Education at the University of Quebec in Hull, Christian set out looking for employment in the social services field. He came to PLKS this past fall and worked with his tutor, Sandra and Workplace Literacy Consultant, Barb Hagan; he knew that he needed to improve his speaking and writing skills in order to find a job in his chosen field. Almost immediately, Christian found a permanent position at the Kelowna and District Society for Community Living as a support worker in their day program. Successfully employed, Christian is now able to devote more time to his passion: the arts. An accomplished artist, musician and poet, he recently displayed his pastels at a group art exhibition sponsored by the French Cultural Centre and was on hand for the signing of his poetry book "Asile de la Joie". Translated, "Asylum of Joy" sums up Christian's philosophy: "To keep your mental health, sometimes you've got to be a little crazy!" Christian, your infectious smile and positive spirit endear you to everyone you meet! We wish you continued success.

From the Board

The Board of Directors has had a very busy and productive first quarter.

We have done some updating of our Policy and Procedure manual, and are currently reviewing the terms of reference for our committees. Some board members joined the staff at our booth at the Okanagan Opportunities Fair at Orchard Park on April 16th". Our Awareness Committee has been busy looking into various means of showcasing our organization in the community.

We regret that one of our members, Ron van der Meer, has resigned his position due to personal reasons. Ron was a Director for over 2 years, and his contributions were any; his most recent and largest project was the printing and packaging of the "Bridging Barriers to Learning" art cards. We thank Ron for his dedication and commitment to the organization at the Board level, and wish him all the best. Ron is still a tutor with Project Literacy, so we hope to see him in the office now and then.

The Board is also sorry to say goodbye to the Executive Director, Glenn Kissmann. Glenn's time with Project Literacy was short but he fit into the role easily, and managed to make many connections within the community. We wish him well in his future endeavours, and hope that he will stop in for a visit once in awhile. We are pleased to announce that on May 1st, Barbara Hagan will be taking over the management role. Barb came to PLKS as a tutor, and soon came on staff as our Workplace Literacy Consultant. The Board of Directors looks forward to working with her as we take Project Literacy Kelowna into the future.

Lastly, the board and staff would like to thank everyone that made our Volunteer Appreciation evening a success. A special thanks to Dr. Specs (Orchard Plaza next to Save on Foods) who generously donated two eyeglass frames for a draw held that evening. The lucky winners will be announced in our next newsletter!