About PWC
History
In 1975, an International Symposium for Literacy was held in Persepolis, Iran. As a result, the Declaration of Persepolis was adopted as a charter by literacy workers throughout the world. It states: “Literacy is not an end in itself. It is a fundamental human right."
Following this international conference, an increased awareness of the problem of functional illiteracy within Canada began to grow. The need for a one-on-one volunteer-based adult literacy tutoring program for the Ottawa region was recognized by an inter-divisional research team from Algonquin College, and in 1978 People, Words & Change (PWC) was formed.
Algonquin College offered extensive practical and financial support to PWC until 1986, when PWC became separately incorporated. From the beginning, PWC has also received support from several sources, including volunteers, individuals, corporations, school boards, private foundations, fundraising activities, bingo, and municipal, provincial and federal governments.
Over the years some of the faces have changed and our offices have moved several times, but the fundamental work of the organization has not wavered from its mission.
Memberships
People, Words & Change is a member of:
Our Staff
Dee Sullivan – Executive Director & Education Counsellor
“I joined the People, Words & Change team in the fall of 2007. Prior to joining PWC, I taught English as a Second Language to new immigrants to Canada in Ottawa area LINC Programs. Helping adults achieve their language and literacy goals, whether English is their first or second language, is incredibly inspiring and rewarding. Doing this in a friendly, positive, and dynamic work environment makes PWC a pleasure to come to every day!"
Karen Hilderman – Education Counsellor
“I joined PWC in 2021. I have been involved in adult education since 1998 teaching LINC and Citizenship Test Preparation to newcomers to Canada as well as holding a Co-ordination role for an ESL Literacy Program. I love languages and teaching; combining the two while helping adults achieve their goals and upgrade their skills is rewarding and the perfect fit. I am excited to be working with PWC and helping our learners improve their literacy skills for work, school, and independence."
Shaniece Martin – Computer Instructor
“I have a strong educational background in Psychology and Teaching English as a Second Language, along with experience supporting adult learners through English and digital literacy instruction. My work with People, Words & Change has allowed me to create welcoming learning spaces where newcomers and other adult learners can build essential skills with confidence. My interest in digital literacy began while helping individuals navigate online forms during the pandemic, and it continues to drive my commitment to accessible, learner-centered education.”
Our Volunteers
“Tell me and I forget; show me and I may remember; involve me and I begin to understand." – Confucius
Volunteer tutors form the backbone of our organization. Approximately 65 people volunteer for PWC each year. Some of our volunteers are retired, while some are still involved with careers and families! Many of our volunteers have been with us for many years and have worked with learner after learner after learner!
Some of our volunteers sit on our Board of Directors, and as well as providing excellent support, share their professional skills in areas like accounting, law, and fundraising.
On an annual basis, PWC helps and supports more than 100 Ottawa-area adults to improve their reading, writing, numeracy, and computer skills.
We are committed to increasing the number of learners we can help and are always looking for new, qualified volunteers to either conduct one-on-one tutoring, or to volunteer in our computer lab.
Board of Directors
Our board of directors consists of 8–10 members elected at our Annual General Meeting in June. The board in turn elects its own executive members and appoints a treasurer. The board meets about ten times a year and is responsible for the legal and financial aspects of running a non-profit organization. Volunteers interested in becoming board members can contact the Executive Director, who will put them in touch with one of the directors for further information.
All PWC volunteers and learners are welcome to attend the Annual General Meeting which is normally held mid-June in the PWC office at Heartwood House. In addition to being a social event, we report on the highlights of the year and present the audited financial statements for approval.
The directors for 2025–2026 are:
- Margaret MacDonald – President
- Vice President – (Vacant)
- Jo-Anne Doherty – Secretary
- Lynn Hemmings – Treasurer
- Rebecca Grace
- Catherine Newell
- Richard Provost
- Marcia Steinburg
- Gary Warnock
- Paule Labbé
- Andre Savary
- Dee Sullivan – Staff Representative
PWC Membership
Membership
All Board members and PWC employees shall be considered members for the period that they remain active in, or employed by, PWC. Volunteer tutors and learners, who wish to become Members of PWC, may do so by completing an application form. Other individuals who are interested in advancing the objectives of PWC may also apply. Applications for Membership are subject to approval by the Board of Directors. Members will be acknowledged at each AGM.