The Barrie Advance has always provided extensive coverage of our annual Spelling Bee events in both online and paper editions, for which we are thankful.

However, recently you have also run the story and picture of me receiving a volunteer award and a donation from the Rotary Club of Barrie.

Although usually more subtle about my work, I certainly have appreciated the comments receive from my friends and peers. More importantly, though, is the awareness I believe the Literacy Council has received as a result of your coverage.

As you can appreciate, it is somewhat difficult to reach students who may benefit from our services; adults with low literacy rarely undertake an active search for help and so to have our story ‘out there’ increases the chances of people finding out about us. This is also beneficial for potential volunteer tutors.

You are commended for your publication’s focus on local information, news and support of our community’s charitable sector.