Throughout the years, Sam*, who was in his thirties with young children, would do anything he could to avoid taking part in activities that involved reading and writing. He was extremely insecure because of his low literacy skills which ultimately affected him both personally and professionally. By the time he approached the Brant Skills Centre for help he felt like he was at the end of his rope.

When Sam walked into the Brant Skills Centre, a Brant United Way Member Agency, he had a set of personal goals that he was hoping to accomplish with their help. The most important of those goals for him were to acquire new skills and further develop his existing skill set in order to improve his work performance. His other goal was to be able to help his children do their homework.

One year has gone by and the transition that Sam has made has changed his life. Through the help and support of the staff and volunteers at the Brant Skills Centre, Sam is now able to read novels, help his children with their homework, understand instructions and reports at work and has discovered an overall better quality of life. For the first time, Sam has his own library card. He and his family make regular trips to take out books and discuss them together.

Sam is now confident in himself and his abilities at home and at work. It is clear that he is a much happier person and is eager to continue to further his skills. More importantly, he now has the confidence to help his children with their school work.

This is only one instance of support, success and hope that Brant United Way and our Member Agency partners has helped to provide for ALL members of our community. Creating real, lasting change is imperative for our community to continue to grow and succeed.

*Names have been changed for confidentiality