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DLN Information
• Location • History • Overview • Mission Statement • Vision Statement
• Board of Directors • Literacy Link
DLN's Location and Address
Suite 200, 260 Wyse Road, Dartmouth, NS B3A 1N3.
Click here for a map of DLN's location.
The history of DLN
In the early 1980s a need for adult literacy programs in the Dartmouth area was identified and the seeds for growth of a new organization were planted. Dartmouth Literacy Network began as a meeting of community interest groups in early 1985. After much hard work, it was officially launched by the then Mayor of Dartmouth, Dr John Savage, on 5 Dec 1986, Adult Literacy Awareness Day in the city of Dartmouth.
The fledgling, non-profit organization began to hire staff through project monies. Training of volunteers commenced and learners started to register. The one-to-one tutoring model was used to develop a program with volunteers offering instruction in basic adult education to people living in the Dartmouth area. Since its establishment, DLN has registered as a Charitable Organization and as a Society in Nova Scotia.
The Dartmouth Learning Network functions, presently, with no core funding, since the Dartmouth District School Board withdrew all funding in 1995. Since then DLN continues to operate by reducing overheads, the perennial application for scarce grants and by organizing different activities to raise funds.
The support and leadership provided by a dedicated Board of Directors and the commitment of volunteers, businesses and organizations in the community has made it possible to respond to adult learning needs and develop an annual registration of over 100 learners.
An Overview of the Dartmouth Learning Network
- The Dartmouth Learning Network (DLN) is a community-based, volunteer, non-profit organization which addresses adult learning for life.
- DLN is directed by a Board of Directors and managed by an Executive Director.
- DLN is open September to June, Monday - Friday, 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
- DLN provides one-to-one tutoring and small group facilitation for adults who want help with basic reading, writing, spelling, math and/or computer skills.
- DLN receives most of its program funding from government grants and they hold fundraisers throughout the year to fund other activities and operations
- Part of DLN's mandate is to increase public awareness on literacy issues. Memberships are held in the Metro Council on Continuing Education and Literacy Nova Scotia.
Our Mission Statement
Dartmouth Learning Network provides opportunities for adults to improve their literacy skills, free of charge.
Vision Statement
Dartmouth Learning Network strives to be recognized as one of the premier Adult Learning organizations in Nova Scotia, in both official languages. We will build upon our strengths, and continue to evolve within an atmosphere of continuous improvement. We will develop enhanced strategies to sustain essential programs, and establish new and innovative processes. We will be supported by an effective, involved Board of Directors providing consistent direction and lending expertise in all matters related to the achievement and upholding of our Mission.
Our Vision supports the following philosophy and core values:
Philosophy:
We recognize an urgent need to improve the literacy level in Dartmouth.
Core Values:
- We show respect for the dignity and capability of the individual;
- We believe that people who approach us are motivated to learn;
- We uphold uncompromising integrity;
- We support continuous improvement and personal renewal;
- We promote economic development by improving the literacy and life skills of our learners;
- We recognize and celebrate achievement;
- We prove and maintain credibility;
- We respectfully recognize the generosity of the surrounding community, and will draw on it for our volunteer support;
- We will continue to discharge our financial accountability with the highest degree of responsibility and integrity;
- We will continue to be responsible in the use of our resources.
Our Board of Directors
Our Board of Directors comprises ten - thirteen dedicated community members, learners, tutors and representatives from such organizations as the Halifax Public Libraries, Dartmouth Rotary Club, etc. The Board is responsible for ensuring DLN's Mission Statement is carried out.
Executive:
Dana Atwell: Chair
Gordon Eastwood: Past Chair
Margaret Fraser: Vice-Chair
Barry Nicholson: Treasurer
Wendy Lill: Secretary
Sunday Miller: Executive Director (ex officio)
Board of Directors:
Karen Billard: Learner Rep.
"Literacy Link"
Our newsletter, "Literacy Link" is produced by Dartmouth Learning Network for all of our Learners, Tutors and Supporters. It is informative, fun and interesting. It is available on-line here as a PDF file (so you'll need Adobe Acrobat Reader to view it), but if you want a copy mailed to you, e-mail us or phone us at 464-3444.
