Golf Tournament Raises Funds for Adult Literacy

Adult learners in Nova Scotia who are returning to school will get more support through funds raised at the PGI Golf Tournament for Literacy.

Almost 100 representatives from business, community organizations and government teed off at the Chester Golf Club today, June 19, to raise funds for literacy.

As part of the tournament, the Department of Education made a $40,000 contribution to Literacy Nova Scotia to support adult learning.

"The PGI Golf Tournament is one of the many ways the department supports adult learners. We've supported the tournament since it started 16 years ago," said Education Minister Jamie Muir. "Nova Scotians are committed to learning the skills they need to live and work successfully in the province."

Mr. Muir added that the Nova Scotia School for Adult Learning is another initiative supporting adult literacy. It is celebrating its fifth anniversary this year.

The Department of Education has contributed about $580,000 to Literacy Nova Scotia as part of its involvement in the tournament over the years. The total amount raised in Nova Scotia over 16 years is more than $1 million.

Funds raised through the tournament enable community-based organizations to improve access to learning programs by providing services such as transportation and child care. In addition, Literacy Nova Scotia offers scholarships, bursaries and workshops to adult students; publishes newsletters; and shares information about literacy with adult students, literacy organizations and the public.

"These contributions make it possible for more adults to participate in programs in their communities," said Ann Marie Downie, executive director, Literacy Nova Scotia. "Adults can face many challenges when returning to learning. The PGI literacy grants help provide books, learning materials, computers and transportation to get to classes."

The PGI golf tournaments were established by late national broadcast journalist Peter Gzowski. They are the most successful literacy fundraising events in Canada, generating more than $8 million (net funds) over the last 20 years.

They are co-ordinated nationally by ABC Canada, a not-for-profit organization that promotes adult literacy. The tournaments are held in 13 provinces and territories. In Nova Scotia, the provincial committee includes members from the business community, ABC Canada, Literacy Nova Scotia and the Department of Education.