From the moment I started my new job, I felt the energy and passion that our board, staff, literacy partners and supporters bring to Decoda. Thank you for such a warm welcome. I can’t wait to connect with everyone and hear your thoughts on how we can continue to build on Decoda’s accomplishments.

I would like to give special thanks to Margaret Sutherland. As the outgoing executive director, Margaret laid the groundwork for a smooth and seamless transition. Her contribution to literacy has been immense. I can think of no higher honour than for Margaret to be named the recipient of this year’s Council of the Federation of Literacy Award (COFLA). Kudos to Margaret on her award, her career and her well-deserved retirement.

Today, we celebrate UNESCO International Literacy Day. Across the province, landmarks will light up in purple tonight to recognize the importance literacy plays in the lives of British Columbians. Thank you to our “Lights of Purple” sponsors, BC Mayors and city councils for proclaiming September as Literacy Month.

This year’s campaign promises to be our best. Our live Team Trivia Challenge is back at The Yaletown Distillery. For the seventh year in a row, CBC’s Dan Burritt is returning as our trivia co-host. Register your team today!

Even if you can’t join us, you can still make a big impact!

Every gift — in support of the trivia fundraising event — will be matched $1 for $1 up to $10,000 thanks to the generosity of our presenting sponsor First West Credit Union and its four locally known and trusted divisions: Envision Financial, Valley First, Island Savings and Enderby & District Financial.

Please take this opportunity to double the impact and make your gift today!

I would like to thank all our community and corporate partners: Rotary Club of Vancouver, Blue Sky Clothing, Marsh Canada, Chris Chung – BMO Nesbitt Burns and our gift-in-kind donors. Special thanks to CBC, our returning exclusive media broadcast sponsor. Stay tuned to watch Decoda’s PSAs all month-long on CBC.

This month, I encourage you to get involved. #PutOnYourPurple. Purchase your purple socks to support literacy. Enter our province-wide contest (#Connect4Lit22) and find out how Raise-a-Reader Week – September 22-29 empowers children and families to read.

Please feel free to reach out to me at any time.

Let’s connect!

Sandra Lee

Executive Director