We start the new year by expressing our gratitude to the Government of BC for proclaiming January 21 to January 28 as Family Literacy Week in B.C.

This year, our theme is “Let’s have a family party!” Creating special moments with your family during a party can be so special. Children can learn a lot by helping plan and make things for a party, and there are so many literacy skills involved in party activities.

Family Literacy Week is all about connecting with our families and communities.  Celebrations are happening all across the province. I encourage you to check out our events page to find how you can join online, at home and through outdoor activities in your community.

To get more involved, download age-specific activity sheets and participate in the Family Literacy Week Photo Contest.

I hope that you will have fun with your family – on Family Literacy Day on January 27 and throughout Family Literacy Week!

Continuing our work

Keeping with the theme of family literacy, we chose to feature our office administrator, Natasha Loh – who integrates literacy into both her work and home life while raising two young boys. Learn about her passion for literacy and her family literacy tips in Promoting literacy at work and home.

None of our work would be possible without the generous support of our donors. A few months ago, Decoda received its largest gift ever from one person. During her lifetime, Sheron Diane Austin made a big difference in many lives. She left a special gift in her will to support literacy, carrying on her legacy.  Please take a moment to read her inspiring story.

2024 Decoda Literacy Conference

From April 17-19, we invite everyone in the literacy field to join us for the 2024 Decoda Literacy Conference in Richmond, B.C. The event promises to be a gathering of minds, innovative ideas and best practices to further our mission.

New beginnings

Last month at Decoda’s Annual General Meeting, we bid farewell to two Board Members: Valerie Overgaard, Chair, and Leslie Landell, Director. Their dedication and commitment have left an indelible mark on shaping the future of Decoda. We want to thank them for all the time and effort they put in.

I’m delighted to share that Ralph St. Clair is our new chair. We’ve also welcomed three new directors: Eunice Bantok, Tracy Defoe and Lynn Green. Each of them brings their own expertise, fresh ideas and a strong passion for what we do. I’m excited about working with them.

At the AGM, we also highlighted our accomplishments in the Annual Report 2022-2023. I invite you to see how you helped made these accomplishments possible. We hope you will continue your support by donating today.

As we face both opportunities and challenges in 2024, let’s keep making a positive impact!

Best wishes,

Sandra