Message from the President – October 2024
The final quarter (Term Four) of the school year is always different and interesting for families.
For some they will be finalising Kindergarten and looking to commence formal education as a ‘Preppy’. For others they will be thinking about commencing at a new school and their journey into high school life. Others of course will be finalising school exams, attending their ‘Formal’ and preparing for life after school.
Welcome New Subscribers
It is such a pleasure to welcome new subscribers to the LFC Newsletter. Just over 50 new families who have children with literacy challenges subscribed in the third quarter.
Struggling Families
As at the end of term two, the LFC continues to be concerned about the financial challenges that are being faced by families. The families contacting the LFC for support were, at one time, able to afford private educational services for their children who were struggling with literacy development but are now not able to pay for these necessary services.
This is why it is important that as many families as possible but also professional service providers are aware of the financial support available from the LFC.
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Getting The Message Out There
Unfortunately, term three recorded a downturn in the number of applications for financial support. While there could be a number of factors that caused this, it is likely that many families are yet to learn of the assistance available through the LFC.
Getting the message out there, that we are ready and willing to support has been a challenge. While the website is working well it needs maintenance and improvement. We have, until recently, lacked the necessary volunteer support in the areas of website support and media.
Thankfully, a very skilled and dedicated volunteer in the area of social media has recently taken on the task of increasing awareness about the services of the LFC. The management committee is made up of dedicated members but they all work full time. This makes the role of volunteers vital to the provision of our ongoing services.
We are also hoping to attract a volunteer in the area of event management with a view to hosting a corporate fundraising event in 2025.
If you feel you are able to assist, even for a couple of hours a week, and you have an interest in the work of the LFC please make contact. We would be very excited to hear from you.
Financial Support Provided in the Third Quarter
While application numbers have been lower than hoped, the LFC has provided just under $4000 to several families. The support provided has ranged from 50% to 90% of the total costs to access private educational support services and literacy interventions. We are hoping to substantially increase this figure in the coming quarter.
Donations Gratefully Received
Again, it is important to acknowledge the donations received in the third quarter. Over the quarter the vast majority of donations have come from anonymous personal donors. These donors have expressed specific interest in assisting families who have children with Dyslexia and Dysgraphia.
It remains a privilege to continue to be a part of the important work of the Literacy Foundation for Children. We hope you enjoy reading this edition of News!
Jason McGowan
President
