The Chilliwack Learning Community Society (CLCS) recently held its annual general meeting at which the appointment of a new board and executive was made.

Outgoing board president and co-chair, Julia Dodge, highlighted some of the organization's achievements in 2010:

"The Chilliwack Cross-Sector Workforce Training Project completed its third and final year in 2010," she said. "The dedication of Michael Berger and the task group members sees us moving forward towards the sustainable provision of Workplace Essential Skills training in Chilliwack.

"Despite policy changes and government ministry changes, the Community Adult Literacy Program (CALP) funding was not received. Nevertheless, the Community Access to Learning and Literacy (CALL) program continued its work within the limited budget and provided training and support for nearly 100 literacy tutors and learners in Chilliwack.

"The Volunteer Appreciation event was a tremendous success. The work of the CLCS would not be possible without the innumerable volunteer hours contributed to the organization."

The incoming board was welcomed by outgoing president Julia Dodge. Incoming president Jennifer Douglas noted the appointments of Donna Gannon as secretary and Robyn Orford as treasurer. Also named to the board were Gloria Hobbs, Julie Pariseau, Amber Short, and Ruth Wiebe. Gannon and Pariseau will co-chair the CLCS board.

Douglas thanked the various task groups of the CLCS for their hard work preparing plans for the coming year. She added: "It's the work of our volunteers--whether as individuals or as part of working committees--that make the CLCS successful. We appreciate all of them."

2011 CLCS Board Members

President, Jennifer Douglas, Fraser Valley Regional Library; secretary and board co-chair, Donna Gannon, community volunteer; treasurer Robyn Orford, Envision Financial; past president, Julia Dodge, University of the Fraser Valley; Director, Ruth Wiebe, School District No. 33; director Gloria Hobbs, Sto:lo Aboriginal Skills and Employment Training; Director, Amber Short, The Book Man; director and board co-chair, Julie Pariseau, community volunteer; Literacy Outreach co-ordinator, Debbie Denault; Workplace Essential Skills co-ordinator, Michael Berger.