Explore Literacy: Free Events in Chilliwack This February

Residents of Chilliwack have the opportunity to engage in two enriching literacy events this February, aimed at fostering reading and learning among families. The Chilliwack Learning Society is organizing the fourth annual event titled The Stories That Connect Us on February 7, 2024, at the Bob Chan-Kent Family YMCA. Additionally, the City-Wide Reading Challenge will take place from February 1 to 21, 2024, inviting participation from individuals of all ages.

Events Designed to Inspire and Engage

The Stories That Connect Us event will be held from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. at the YMCA located on Hocking Avenue. Annette Williams from the Chilliwack Learning Society described the event as “a free and fun family literacy event designed to spark imagination, build early literacy skills, and create meaningful moments together.” Attendees can look forward to a range of activities, including storytimes, songs, music-making, crafts, and physical activities, all aimed at fostering a love for reading.

Participants will also receive free books and can register for library cards on-site for both adults and children. Complimentary snacks and coffee will be provided, making it a welcoming environment for families. While registration is encouraged through the link at https://bit.ly/45fdcbN, drop-ins are also welcome.

City-Wide Reading Challenge Encourages Participation

Alongside the literacy event, the City-Wide Reading Challenge invites people to read consistently throughout the month. From February 1 to 21, individuals can track their reading progress using their phones, notepads, or a printable tracker. Participants can enjoy a variety of materials, including books, graphic novels, audiobooks, and podcasts.

Williams emphasized the inclusive nature of the challenge, stating, “If you miss some days, that’s okay.” At the end of the challenge, participants can enter a prize draw by completing an online form at bit.ly/CLSreadingchallenge, or by submitting their printed trackers at designated locations, including the Sardis, Chilliwack, or Yarrow Libraries, or the Bob Chan-Kent Family YMCA. Ballots must be submitted by March 1, 2024, with winners announced on March 6, 2024. Each participant may submit one ballot, and prizes can be collected at local libraries.

The Chilliwack Learning Society aims to encourage both children and adults to participate in the challenge. “Often adults submit ballots for their children but not themselves – we’re hoping they’ll submit for themselves too. It doesn’t reduce the number of prizes for children,” Williams noted.

These literacy initiatives are made possible through partnerships with the Chilliwack School District, the Bob Chan-Kent Family YMCA, and Chilliwack Community Services Child Care Resource and Referral. For further details, including the printable tracker for the reading challenge, visit chilliwacklearning.com/news.

This February promises to be an exciting month for literacy in Chilliwack, providing opportunities for families to connect and cultivate a love for reading in a supportive environment.