Thank You for Making Our 2021 Virtual PGI A Success!

On November 30^th, 2021, the Literacy Coalition held its first ever virtual Peter Gzowski Invitational celebration. The event was held on Zoom, with over 40 people in attendance.

Our annual PGI event is our main and most important fundraiser, which we were unable to hold last year due to Covid. Therefore, we are so pleased to say we exceeded our fundraising goal, raising $5,375 for literacy in New Brunswick. We thank everyone who donated for their generosity!

We also want to thank our incredible sponsors for this event: Bringloe Feeney LLP, Chuck Cartmill of LED Roadway Lighting, Plugged-IN CPA, and Passiv Inc.!  Thanks also to all of our donors and participants for your kind support.

This year’s recipient of the Peter Gzowski Award went to Ashley Counsell. This award recognizes Ashley’s tireless work and dedication to our PGI events and literacy over the years.

The event also featured some well-known guests: Rick Mercer as the National MC, author Louise Penny who gave some wonderful remarks, and fantastic musical guests Ashley MacIsaac, Twin Flames, and Stephen Fearing.

Lynda Homer, LCNB’s Executive Director, was the coordinator of our event and our local host. Jordan Trethewey, Fredericton’s Poet Laureate, read his poem titled “The Wolastoq River’s Council”, dedicating it to Fredericton’s Mayor, Kate Rogers.

As always, a very special part of the celebration was dedicated to honouring our incredible adult learners. This year’s winners were Martin Comeau and Jessica Baillie. Martin was one of the winners of the Adult Learner Essay Contest, and he shared a bit of his inspiring story about how learning changed his life. Jessica is part of our Essential & Employability Skills – Health Sector project, and she spoke about how learning and essential skills have improved her life and wellbeing. Congratulations to both of our inspiring award recipients!

Since our first inaugural Peter Gzowski Dinner and Auction 16 years ago, the Literacy Coalition has raised more than $1.6 million dollars. Funds raised go directly to youth, adult and family literacy programs around the province, including support for our schools, libraries and community groups. While it may have looked a bit different this year, we were so pleased that we could celebrate literacy safely!

Thank you to everyone who donated, registered and attended this amazing event!