As an independent video producer I've been working with Michael McCarthy, a local travel writer, to take his footage and put together a promotional video. The goal with this video focusing on literacy is to secure funding and participation from interested parties to help Rotary Club deal with some of the problems faced by First Nations communities in British Columbia.
If you mouse over the photos below, you can learn more about this project.
Travel writer Michael McCarthy believes in intentional travel, that is travel that has a purpose other than just seeing the sights. While Michael has travelled all over the world today he's looking to offer help closer to home.
The village of Ahousaht is just north of Tofino on the west coast of Vancouver Island. Like many First Nations communities Ahousaht faces many challenges with literacy being a key issue that impacts many people.
Gary McDermott from the Industry Training Authority points to illiteracy as a significant obstacle to access traditional education systems. Lack of education then places limits on employment opportunities.
Literacy training can be conducted right on the reserve if funding and resources can be obtained to help rebuild or create new facilites such as libraries, recreational outlets and housing.
Pam Frank - Board Chair of the Ahousaht Education Authority acknowledges that the remote location of Ahousaht does provide challenges for those seeking higher education.
The Honourable Steven Point - Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia is spearheading an initiative to bring literacy to many remote aboriginal communities.
Britco Structures of Langley, BC donated a former 2010 Winter Olympics building and converted it to be used as a library. Rotary Club members then donated books and raised funds to purchase new books.
Health care is another issue requiring attention so University of British Columbia Dentistry students brought portable equipment to remote communities to give residents access to much needed services.
The programs have proven successful and will be repeated but so much more needs to be done.
Contact your local Rotary Club chapter to find out how you can help.
