Literacy Council York-Simcoe (LCYS) is a registered non-profit charitable organization in the York-Simcoe region of Ontario. Originally LCYS was founded to improve the reading, writing and math skills of local adults who are no longer in school. LCYS provides free, flexible, confidential and individualized literacy training and employment support programs that are adapted to the specific needs of each student.  

Mission 

Our goal is to improve reading, writing and math skills in York-Simcoe.

Vision

The Literacy Council of York-Simcoe will respond to the increasing literacy needs of the region through quality instruction, customized learning, and increased community partnerships.

We will empower students by encouraging them to be active members of the community.

We will educate the public regarding reading, writing and math skills issues in the community.

Values

We value professionalism, which ensures information and teaching styles are up-to-date and appropriate for students and volunteers.

We value an environment of respect and confidentiality for all.

We value our ability to provide cost-effective training for students and volunteers.

We value our ability to provide individualized training appropriate to the needs of students.

We value a supportive learning atmosphere for volunteers, students and the community.

History

Literacy Council York-Simcoe, originally known as Newmarket Literacy Council, was formed in 1984 without government funding.

By 1987 the Council was incorporated as a non-profit charitable organization, was granted funding from the Ontario Ministry of Skill Development and opened an office in Newmarket.

By 1989, we served the entirety of York Region (except for Georgina) and our name changed to Literacy Council York-Simcoe.

In 1994, we had grown to the extent that a separate council was formed to serve Thornhill, Richmond Hill, Unionviille, Stouffville, Markham, King, Woodbridge and Maple and Literacy Council York South became an independent council.

Our catchment area at present includes Aurora, Bradford, Holland Landing, Mount Albert, Queensville and surrounding areas.