For the fifth year running, the Prince George Citizen is doing its part to help erase illiteracy in the region.
Wednesday, Sept. 28 marks Raise a Reader Day, an annual initiative taken on by 27 newspapers across the country to raise money for family literacy programs.
Since the national launch, the program has raised more than $17 million to educate Canadians about literacy issues and raise awareness for how improved literacy levels have a positive impact on the country's economy and social well-being.
"It's a great tie for the newspaper to engage young readers and adult readers alike," said Prince George Citizen business develop co-ordinator Alan Ramsay. "It's a natural fit to be involved in a literacy initiative."
For a two-hour window - between 7 and 9 a.m. - on the morning of Sept. 28, volunteers in bright orange shirts, including 13 members of the Prince George Cougars, will be handing out special editions of the Citizen in exchange for donations that will be used for a literacy grant within the community.
Papers will be handed out at the McDonalds on 15th and Central, various Tim Hortons locations (Hart Highway, 5th Avenue and Central, Westgate, Victoria Street, 15th Avenue and Ospika Boulevard and Ferry Avenue), various Starbucks locations (College Heights, Pine Centre and 15th Avenue and Central), College of New Caledonia, HSBC building, University Hospital of Northern B.C., UNBC and Victoria Street between 6th and 7th Avenues.
Local sponsors include the University of Northern British Columbia, Assante Wealth Management and the Rotary Clubs of Prince George. TD Canada Trust will be counting all the money raised.
Since its inception in Prince George, $150,000 has been handed out to local schools and organizations such a the Canadian National Institute for the Blind. Ramsay said support from community has been tremendous. "Even in struggling times, people still find a way to donate to this cause," he said, also thanking the organizing committee for their dedication to putting the event together.
For those interested in volunteering, contact Alan Ramsay at 250-960-2772 or e-mail aramsay@pgcitizen.ca.
