In 1899, Alfred Fitzpatrick founded our organization based on the idea that literacy—at its most basic, the ability to understand the written word—is a fundamental human right. In the early years, United for Literacy, formerly Frontier College, hosted Reading Tents where adults gathered to learn reading, writing, and math skills from volunteers. Our All Welcome! approach still stands today: every place is a learning place. | |
For many years, Labourer-Teachers were hired to work with people on the railroad, in mines, and at logging camps. By day, these young men (and eventually women) did the same work as those they taught, who were often recent immigrants to Canada. In the evenings and on weekends, they taught English, helped the workers write letters home, and assisted with medical care, government programs, and anything else the men required. | |
An outdoor class with railway workers, 1926 | |
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Did You Know?
We’ve been known by many names. In 1917, The Reading Camp Association changed its name to Frontier College. In 2022, Frontier College became United for Literacy, which reflects the organization’s response to the people and communities it serves.
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Throughout the years, we have developed a wide variety of literacy and learning programs for people of all ages. To find out more, take a look at the United for Literacy: Past to Present historical timeline on our website.
Reading Tents are still a highlight of the summer for kids and families. Reading Tents are open-air and tent-covered spaces designed to welcome children, youth, and their families to read, craft, sing, and pick up books to take home. When a child visits a Reading Tent, they leave not only with a new book but with a sense of community. We feel privileged to be welcomed into so many communities from coast to coast to coast and are proud to be the literacy partner of choice to many community organizations.
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Above: An early Reading Tent with the message All Welcome!
Right: A contemporary Reading Tent
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Join us in celebration of our 125th anniversary with :
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Special Anniversary Reading Tents in communities across Canada. Follow @UnitedforLiteracy on Instagram and Facebook for more information.
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The 125 Campaign: a fundraising initiative with the goal of 10,000 gifts of $125. If you would like to help improve literacy in Canada, please donate today.
- Special events, including:
- A public celebration of United for Literacy founder Alfred Fitzpatrick in his hometown of Pictou, Nova Scotia on May 14 (see invitation below).
- A look inside United for Literacy’s historic national office in Toronto as part of Doors Open on May 25 and 26 (see invitation below).
We’re also collecting photos and memories from the past 125 years. If you would like to share a story or photographs from your time with United for Literacy or Frontier College, please send an email telling us about yourself.
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New National Public Opinion Poll on Literacy | |
The majority of Canadians (92%) believe improving literacy rates in Canada would improve Canadians’ standard of living, according to a new Pollara survey commissioned by United for Literacy. Most people surveyed (94%) agree that lower literacy negatively impacts quality of life and 78% support increased government action to improve literacy rates. Literacy is also connected to prosperity, health and well-being, and exposure to violence. Read the article to learn more about this important issue.
What do you think about the results of this poll? If you’d like to make a difference in your community, please consider becoming a volunteer, donating, or sharing the results of this poll on your social media channels.
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The Honorable R. Roy McMurtry | |
The Honorable R. Roy McMurtry (1932-2024) | We are saddened by the loss of The Honorable R. Roy McMurtry, former chief justice of Ontario (1996-2007) and Canadian high commissioner to the United Kingdom (1985-1988). Mr. McMurty had a long history with United for Literacy, starting with two summers spent as a Labourer-Teacher in the 1950s and later returning as a Board member. He was named a life member of Frontier College in 1990. Sadly, he passed away on March 21, 2024, at the age of 91. | |
Sandi Kiverago, former Vice President, Operations, United for Literacy | |
Farewell to Sandi Kiverago,
Vice President of Operations
| In March 2024, we bid a happy retirement to United for Literacy’s Vice President of Operations, Sandi Kiverago. For more than 35 years, Sandi was central to the organization and saw the organization grow and change over the decades. Before she left, Sandi shared her reminiscences and her thoughts about literacy. | |
The 20th Annual Scrabble
for Literacy
| In April, United for Literacy hosted the 20th annual Scrabble for Literacy fundraiser, where teams of word enthusiasts came together for some healthy competition in support of literacy in Canada. Hosted by CP24 Anchor and Reporter Kayla-Marie Williams, the event was attended by 200 guests who enjoyed fun games, great food, a silent auction, and a chance to meet new people. Best of all, over $100,000 was raised for an important cause! | |
Players enjoying a game of Scrabble | |
National Volunteer Week 2024’s theme, Every Moment Matters, is an excellent reminder that small actions can make a big difference. Moment by moment, person by person, volunteers are building a better world. This National Volunteer Week, as we celebrate 125 years of United for Literacy, we thank every person who gives their time to helping others, and we are shining a light on some special United for Literacy volunteers. | |
Juliette, volunteer with the English Program in Montreal, QC | |
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Are you interested in volunteering?
No teaching experience? No problem! Program volunteers come from many different backgrounds and skill sets. What they share is a wish for everyone to enjoy the benefits of reading, writing, math, and other essential skills. United for Literacy volunteer tutors are all trained and supported by staff and experienced volunteers.
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