Literature for Life
Everyone has the desire to create their own destiny.
We give young mothers the power of literacy to create theirs.
At Literature for Life, we believe in the power of words as a tool that enables youth to become their own advocates for personal and community-based change. We engage at-risk young families to build a culture of literacy and learning and overcome systemic barriers, thereby investing in their own and their families' future.
Literature for Life helps women find their voice and see what's possible
We provide programs for young mothers that are designed to nurture their inner power. With a supportive group of peers, they read books, write their stories through prose and poetry, and perform their work through our reading circles. These young mothers see new possibilities and choices. They value the children's books we give them and begin reading to their children. They find their voice to speak out in their community and become a role model for other young men and women. They see possibilities for themselves and their children, and show their peers through example that success is attainable.
Literacy holds the key to social and systemic change
We believe literacy skills are determinants of good mental health, and are a major contributor in effective decision-making and critical thinking. Literacy skills have a positive impact on conflict resolution, employment opportunities and personal income capacity for at least two generations.
The young women who join Literature for Life programs have made a choice to change their lives. They are tired of living with their hands out. They begin to engage in discussions about life, and they learn to discuss issues and think critically. They value education for themselves and their children.
Through reading, writing, storytelling and performance, young women learn proactive strategies to make an investment in the future
- They improve their parenting through writing for and reading Yo'Mama, our magazine written by young moms for young moms
- They engage in solution-based discussions about violence, abuse, gangs, guns and addictions in SOLACE magazine
- They learn the power of having an education and having work
- They learn the value and dignity of being a good parent of saying no to abuse and violence
- Ultimately, they develop the dignity to value themselves, their children and their community
Through our programs and supportive peer groups, Literature for Life helps at-risk young families see possibilities and hope.
How you can help
Register with us to Walk or Run the 5k, half or full marathon and set a fundraising goal for yourself.
Collect pledges from your family, friends and colleagues. They can make a pledge to Literature for Life, or they can join you in the run and raise funds themselves.
If you raise $200 or more, we'll pay your registration fee.
To join our team contact Jo Altilia, scotiarun@literatureforlife.org or call 416-203-9830.
We look forward to meeting you on race day!