CLCLC receives sizeable grant, rural women expected to benefit

Posted on October 5, 2022 by Sunny South News

By Cal Braid
Sunny South News

The County of Lethbridge Community Learning Council (CLCLC) has qualified to receive a grant worth $46,300 from the Ministry of Advanced Education. The grant is designated as an expanded service grant for a Community Adult Learning Program.

The CLCLC hosts programs throughout the year that are intended to boost the skills of adults who want to create new opportunities for themselves. Each year, the CLCLC runs classes in basic English and math, literacy, computer skills, resumes, and work skills/personal growth. They also offer exam preparation for those who want to obtain a Class 7 learner’s license.

Melanie Patenaude, executive director, spoke about the grant application process, saying, “This was a one-time funding opportunity to be spent during our current three-year grant cycle. We had to identify needs we found in our community and explain how we would address those needs with this funding. We also had to anticipate the impact this funding would have on our Adult Learning Council and our community.”

When asked what the funding would be directed towards, Patenaude said, “The money will be funding a program to provide employability training and skills for learning development, especially among rural women. We aim to reduce barriers and access to education, training opportunities, resources, and employment opportunities.”

After the summer closure, the CLCLC is offering new programs beginning in October and running throughout the year. The programs are available for a minimal fee, and some of the classes provide childcare for parents who want to expand their skills but have kids in their direct care. The Council contracts instructors and childcare workers to serve the municipalities in Lethbridge County. Most programming is held at either the Coaldale or Picture Butte library.

“We are starting with our Work Ready program which will focus on related skills such as employee rights, discovering my skills, cash register training, computers, and resume building, as well as some English language learning when needed,” Patenaude said. “We are eager to begin this class and are currently accepting enrolment.”

The Work Ready program begins Oct. 11. The Conversation Café begins in Picture Butte on Oct. 21 for those who want to build upon their English speaking and listening skills. English classes begin on various dates throughout October in both Coaldale and Picture Butte.

Additional courses include first aid, safe food handling, and internet safety. For a current listing of classes and locations, visit communityclasses.ca or call 403-345-6009.