Engage in February Fun with Two Free Literacy Events in Chilliwack

Residents of Chilliwack can look forward to two exciting free literacy events throughout February, designed to enhance community engagement and promote reading among all ages. The Chilliwack Learning Society is partnering with notable organizations to host the fourth annual event titled “The Stories That Connect Us” at the Bob Chan-Kent Family YMCA on February 7, alongside the City-Wide Reading Challenge running from February 1 to 21.

Family Literacy Event Promises Engaging Activities

“The Stories That Connect Us” is crafted to be an enjoyable and inspiring experience, aimed at fostering early literacy skills in children and creating cherished family moments. Annette Williams, a representative of the Chilliwack Learning Society, emphasizes the event’s purpose: “It is a free and fun family literacy event designed to spark imagination, build early literacy skills, and create meaningful moments together.”

Scheduled from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. at the YMCA on Hocking Avenue, attendees can expect a vibrant afternoon filled with storytimes, musical activities, crafts, and physical challenges. Participants will also have the chance to connect with local educational resources, register for library cards on-site, and enjoy complimentary snacks and coffee. While pre-registration is preferred via the link https://bit.ly/45fdcbN, walk-ins are warmly welcomed.

City-Wide Reading Challenge Encourages Participation

The City-Wide Reading Challenge invites individuals of all ages to read as much as possible during the designated period. Participants can track their reading progress using their phones, notepads, or a printable tracker/ballot. Williams reassures participants, “If you miss some days, that’s okay,” encouraging a relaxed approach to the reading challenge.

Eligible reading materials include books, graphic novels, audiobooks, and even podcasts. To enter a prize draw at the conclusion of the challenge, participants must submit their completed trackers by March 1. This can be done by filling out an online form at bit.ly/CLSreadingchallenge, or dropping off the printed tracker at any of the following locations: Sardis, Chilliwack, or Yarrow Libraries, as well as the Bob Chan-Kent Family YMCA. Winners will be announced on March 6 and must collect their prizes at local libraries.

The Chilliwack Learning Society also encourages adults to participate in the challenge, not just their children. “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.

For further details about both events, including access to the printable tracker and ballot, visit the Chilliwack Learning Society’s website at chilliwacklearning.com/news. These initiatives are made possible through collaboration with the Chilliwack School District, Bob Chan-Kent Family YMCA, and Chilliwack Community Services Child Care Resource and Referral, emphasizing a strong community commitment to literacy and education.