Organization: Frontier College

MISSION:

Frontier College is a Canada-wide, volunteer-based, literacy organization. We teach people to read and write and we nurture an environment favorable to lifelong learning. Since 1899, we have been reaching out to people wherever they are and responding to their particular learning needs. We believe in literacy as a right and we work to achieve literacy for all.

Frontier College operates programs for teens and children across Canada. In Quebec programs are delivered through Bishops University and Concordia University.

Working with Children and Teens

Homework Clubs
Frontier College works with community-based groups and organizations to set up Homework Clubs for children and teenagers. At Homework Clubs, students meet one-to-one with volunteer tutors to read books, write stories, do homework, and play word games and other activities to improve the reading and writing abilities of the students.

Reading Circles
The Reading Circle is the backbone of the Frontier College family learning movement in Canada. A Reading Circle is a place where children and adults read together for enjoyment. Frontier College trainers help groups organize Reading Circles in their communities.

Publications available (see website for ordering information)

• The Peanut Butter and Jelly Guide to Organizing a Homework Club, Frontier College Press
• Frontier College Reading Circle and Book Buddy Handbook, Frontier College Press
• So You Want to Start a Reading Circle, Video or CD Rom (18 minutes)
• Frontier College Circle Time - The Pre-school Reading Circle Handbook>, Dave Page

Frontier College's website also contains the following documents:

• Tips on reading with your baby
• Tips for reading with children
• Children as reading partners
• Reading Circle - How to start your own Reading Circle
• Choosing books for your Reading Circle
• Recommended children's books
• Recommended family literacy materials